1. Introduction
Digital sovereignty is one of the most urgent issues of our time. Europe strives for independence from American and Chinese tech giants, but in practice, the transition to genuine digital independence proves difficult. Technologically, there are plenty of alternatives, such as free and open-source software (FOSS), decentralized platforms, and European cloud solutions. Yet, individuals, organizations, and governments often continue to rely on proprietary systems. Why is that? The answers lie not in technology, but in the human factor: habits, fear of change, lack of knowledge, and the illusion of convenience.
2. The Lock-in of Habits and Networks
One of the biggest obstacles to change is the lock-in created by years of habit and established networks. This phenomenon is clearly visible in the response to Arjen Lubach’s criticism of politicians and journalists using X (formerly Twitter). Many public figures remain active on X, despite the known issues with misinformation, hate speech, and lack of transparency. The platform offers a familiar environment, a wide reach, and an established network. The idea of switching to a new, unknown platform feels like a step backward, even if that platform aligns better with their values. Change takes effort. For example, we still post on X and other proprietary platforms, but always at least 30 minutes later.
3. Lack of Knowledge and Understanding
A second major barrier is the lack of knowledge. Many people and organizations are simply unaware of the alternatives available. Decentralized platforms like Mastodon or Matrix, for example, are unknown or intimidating to many. These platforms require a different way of thinking: instead of one central platform, there are thousands of independent servers connected to each other. For those accustomed to the simplicity of X or Facebook, this can seem complex and overwhelming, and once you master something, you are reluctant to change it.
4. Fear of Losing Relevance
A third factor is the fear of losing relevance. For politicians, journalists, and other public figures, visibility is crucial. X still offers a large reach, especially among influential groups. The idea of giving up that reach, even if it means continuing to contribute to a platform that no longer aligns with their values, is difficult for many.
5. The Illusion of Convenience and Pseudo-Sovereignty
A fourth factor is the illusion of convenience that proprietary systems offer. Companies like Microsoft and SAP present their solutions as "sovereign" by emphasizing that data is stored locally. This creates the appearance of independence, while actual control over the technology lies elsewhere. This strategy, which we might call "sovereignty washing," is a deliberate attempt to maintain the status quo.
6. The Role of Leadership and Vision
Ultimately, the greatest challenge is not technological, but human: there is a lack of leadership and vision. Governments, businesses, and individuals need courage to take the step, even if it brings discomfort. This requires not only knowledge of the alternatives but also the willingness to accept short-term inconveniences for long-term benefits.
7. OS-SCi: A Practical Path to Digital Sovereignty
One of the most concrete solutions to the human and technological challenges surrounding digital sovereignty is offered by OS-SCi (OpenSource Science B.V.). OS-SCi distinguishes itself by not only advocating for open source and digital independence but also by providing practical, applicable solutions that help individuals, organizations, and governments make the transition.
7.1 Education and Knowledge Sharing
OS-SCi plays a key role in removing knowledge barriers through targeted education and training. The company offers specialized courses and certifications in Lomiri, Odoo, Ubuntu Touch, and other open-source technologies. By collaborating with universities in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, and India, OS-SCi ensures that students and professionals develop the skills needed to implement and maintain open-source solutions.
7.2 Practical Solutions
OS-SCi goes beyond theory by developing concrete, practical solutions. For example, the company has created a modular open-source IT program that helps organizations implement FOSS alternatives to proprietary systems. By partnering with companies like Proxmox, OS-SCi offers internships, specializations, and job opportunities for students.
7.3 Community and Collaboration
OS-SCi encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing within the open-source community. The company organizes events such as the Lomiri Tech Meeting and annual Hackathons, where professionals, students, and policymakers work together on innovative open-source projects.
7.4 Policy and Advocacy
OS-SCi is committed to policy and advocacy by collaborating with European institutions and local governments. The company helps ensure that open source is seen as a fundamental part of European digital independence, for example, by participating in discussions around the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) and the EU AI Act.
7.5 A Future-Proof Vision
OS-SCi aims for a cultural shift, where open source and digital sovereignty are seen as normal and necessary. Initiatives such as the FOSS Career Fund Foundation provide financial support to students who want to specialize in open source.
8. Conclusion: The Time is Ripe for Action
The need for digital sovereignty is clear. Technologically, there are plenty of alternatives, but the greatest challenge lies in the human factor. To truly become sovereign, we must break free from habits, fears, and illusions. This requires leadership, education, and the willingness to accept discomfort. The technology and tools are available. Now it is up to us to take the step.
1. Introduction
Digital sovereignty is one of the most urgent issues of our time. Europe strives for independence from American and Chinese tech giants, but in practice, the transition to genuine digital independence proves difficult. Technologically, there are plenty of alternatives, such as free and open-source software (FOSS), decentralized platforms, and European cloud solutions. Yet, individuals, organizations, and governments often continue to rely on proprietary systems. Why is that? The answers lie not in technology, but in the human factor: habits, fear of change, lack of knowledge, and the illusion of convenience.
2. The Lock-in of Habits and Networks
One of the biggest obstacles to change is the lock-in created by years of habit and established networks. This phenomenon is clearly visible in the response to Arjen Lubach’s criticism of politicians and journalists using X (formerly Twitter). Many public figures remain active on X, despite the known issues with misinformation, hate speech, and lack of transparency. The platform offers a familiar environment, a wide reach, and an established network. The idea of switching to a new, unknown platform feels like a step backward, even if that platform aligns better with their values. Change takes effort. For example, we still post on X and other proprietary platforms, but always at least 30 minutes later.
3. Lack of Knowledge and Understanding
A second major barrier is the lack of knowledge. Many people and organizations are simply unaware of the alternatives available. Decentralized platforms like Mastodon or Matrix, for example, are unknown or intimidating to many. These platforms require a different way of thinking: instead of one central platform, there are thousands of independent servers connected to each other. For those accustomed to the simplicity of X or Facebook, this can seem complex and overwhelming, and once you master something, you are reluctant to change it.
4. Fear of Losing Relevance
A third factor is the fear of losing relevance. For politicians, journalists, and other public figures, visibility is crucial. X still offers a large reach, especially among influential groups. The idea of giving up that reach, even if it means continuing to contribute to a platform that no longer aligns with their values, is difficult for many.
5. The Illusion of Convenience and Pseudo-Sovereignty
A fourth factor is the illusion of convenience that proprietary systems offer. Companies like Microsoft and SAP present their solutions as "sovereign" by emphasizing that data is stored locally. This creates the appearance of independence, while actual control over the technology lies elsewhere. This strategy, which we might call "sovereignty washing," is a deliberate attempt to maintain the status quo.
6. The Role of Leadership and Vision
Ultimately, the greatest challenge is not technological, but human: there is a lack of leadership and vision. Governments, businesses, and individuals need courage to take the step, even if it brings discomfort. This requires not only knowledge of the alternatives but also the willingness to accept short-term inconveniences for long-term benefits.
7. OS-SCi: A Practical Path to Digital Sovereignty
One of the most concrete solutions to the human and technological challenges surrounding digital sovereignty is offered by OS-SCi (OpenSource Science B.V.). OS-SCi distinguishes itself by not only advocating for open source and digital independence but also by providing practical, applicable solutions that help individuals, organizations, and governments make the transition.
7.1 Education and Knowledge Sharing
OS-SCi plays a key role in removing knowledge barriers through targeted education and training. The company offers specialized courses and certifications in Lomiri, Odoo, Ubuntu Touch, and other open-source technologies. By collaborating with universities in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, and India, OS-SCi ensures that students and professionals develop the skills needed to implement and maintain open-source solutions.
7.2 Practical Solutions
OS-SCi goes beyond theory by developing concrete, practical solutions. For example, the company has created a modular open-source IT program that helps organizations implement FOSS alternatives to proprietary systems. By partnering with companies like Proxmox, OS-SCi offers internships, specializations, and job opportunities for students.
7.3 Community and Collaboration
OS-SCi encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing within the open-source community. The company organizes events such as the Lomiri Tech Meeting and annual Hackathons, where professionals, students, and policymakers work together on innovative open-source projects.
7.4 Policy and Advocacy
OS-SCi is committed to policy and advocacy by collaborating with European institutions and local governments. The company helps ensure that open source is seen as a fundamental part of European digital independence, for example, by participating in discussions around the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) and the EU AI Act.
7.5 A Future-Proof Vision
OS-SCi aims for a cultural shift, where open source and digital sovereignty are seen as normal and necessary. Initiatives such as the FOSS Career Fund Foundation provide financial support to students who want to specialize in open source.
8. Conclusion: The Time is Ripe for Action
The need for digital sovereignty is clear. Technologically, there are plenty of alternatives, but the greatest challenge lies in the human factor. To truly become sovereign, we must break free from habits, fears, and illusions. This requires leadership, education, and the willingness to accept discomfort. The technology and tools are available. Now it is up to us to take the step.