As the European Parliament elections approach, the technology sector, characterized by its innovative start-ups and pioneering regulations, stands at a crucial crossroads. Industry insiders are vocal about their hopes and fears for the future legislative landscape, expressing concerns about potential scapegoating, populist politics, and a looming brain drain.
Euronews Next engaged with several tech groups and start-ups to gauge their expectations from the upcoming elections.
Populism and Protectionism
Daniel Friedlaender, Senior Vice President and Head of CCIA Europe at the Computer & Communications Industry Association, expressed concern over the EU’s regulatory approach towards technology. “We really hope technology won’t be used as a scapegoat as much as it has been by the EU institutions in recent years, when the tech sector was blamed for all manner of worries, as some kind of vague boogeyman,” he remarked.
Friedlaender warned against protectionist and populist tendencies that could undermine Europe’s competitiveness and social cohesion. “There have been plenty of issues with the EU’s rush to regulate tech in recent years, but the last thing we need is more protectionism or populism,” he emphasized. He advocates for a political focus on technology’s potential to create jobs, enhance convenience, and address climate challenges.
Impact on Green Technology
Robin Saluoks, CEO of Estonian company eAgronom Global, which develops software to help farmers manage carbon footprints and trade carbon credits, noted the possible electoral impact on green tech companies. “The elections will certainly have some effect on eAgronom and other companies,” he said. Saluoks hopes for clarity on the EU carbon removal certification scheme and food companies’ Scope 3 emissions responsibilities.
Saluoks also highlighted the importance of immigration policies that attract skilled talent. “Even the most conservative forces agree that we are happy to welcome a well-educated and value-adding workforce. Europe is the best region to live in, and we can use it to our advantage to grow the economy,” he stated.
Skills Shortage and Digital Competitiveness
Véronique Torner, head of tech consulting firm Numeum, pointed to the critical skills shortage in Europe’s tech sector. “We need to invest in innovation and skills. It’s a very strong axis,” she said, emphasizing that digital technology is both a geopolitical and economic issue for Europe. Torner hopes the next parliament will foster a vision capable of driving robust industrial policies to maintain competitiveness.
Unified European Approach
Marianne Tordeux Bitker, Director of Public Affairs for France Digitale, Europe’s largest start-up association, stressed the importance of a unified European approach. “I’m not too worried about a right or left parliament, but the question will be open to working on a European level. It should be Europe first and not nations first,” she asserted. Bitker identified financing as a significant issue, urging the creation of global European champions.
Regulatory Implementation
Hugo Volz Oliveira, founding member of the New Economy Institute, highlighted the importance of regulatory implementation, particularly concerning the EU AI Act and cryptocurrency rules under MiCA. “The various regulatory initiatives targeting the tech sector are the most pressing key issues,” he said. Oliveira called for a balanced approach to avoid unintended consequences, especially in sectors like banking, which are already heavily regulated.
Marit Rødevand, CEO and co-founder of Norwegian anti-money laundering intelligence company Strise, echoed these sentiments. She warned that overly stringent regulations could hinder banks and institutions, widening the gap between those using AI for good and malicious actors.
Defence Tech and Modernization
Ricardo Mendes, CEO of Lisbon-based IT, aerospace, defence, and security technologies company Tekever, underscored the need for modernizing defence procurement in light of geopolitical tensions. “I hope to see a government that understands the importance of keeping up with technological advancements and is willing to streamline processes to ensure that our defence capabilities remain relevant and effective,” he said. Mendes called for bold reforms to enhance agility, innovation, and collaboration in defence technology procurement.
As Europe prepares for the upcoming elections, the tech sector’s call for thoughtful regulation, investment in skills, and a unified approach reflects its critical role in shaping the continent’s future.