Netopia asks the key digital policymakers in the European Parliament about their ambitions for the next mandate. Here is German MEP Sabine Verheyen (EPP).
Digital self-determination, infrastructure, and the EU as a global leader in AI are some of MEP Verheyen’s focus topics. She wants to reform GDPR and reduce bureaucracy. Netopia would add that intellectual property can be particularly important for SMEs as a driver of investment, something to consider when maintaining the balance of protection and promotion.
Netopia: What are the most important digital policies in the new mandate?
Data, digital infrastructure, and technological expertise are cornerstone assets of today’s economy. Therefore, it is crucial to lead the expansion of a European digital network spanning the continent to accommodate advancements in 5G and 6G technologies in collaboration with Member States. I advocate for the digital self-determination of every individual, which includes educational efforts and easily understandable resources for dealing with digital devices, particularly in the context of disinformation. Additionally, we have already established important legislative rules with the Digital Services Act, the Digital Markets Act, and the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act to create a safer and fairer digital environment. It is now essential to ensure that these rules are implemented effectively.
We pledge to uphold ethical standards in AI development, foster innovation, and harness the power of AI to create quality jobs and improve the lives of our citizens.
We are committed to positioning the EU as a global leader in AI. Our approach emphasises enabling, nurturing, and leveraging AI innovations, while ensuring they are not hindered by excessive regulation. We prioritise research and application development while revising data protection frameworks to meet the demands of the digital era. In doing so, we pledge to uphold ethical standards in AI development, foster innovation, and harness the power of AI to create quality jobs and improve the lives of our citizens. Fundamental rights in the digital world must be respected, and we aim to update the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights accordingly.
Privacy remains a fundamental right for citizens. We aim for significantly simpler and more uniform data protection laws that are consistently applied throughout the EU, necessitating a reform of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
In summary, our digital policies focus on leveraging technology to drive economic growth, foster innovation, empower individuals, and safeguard privacy and ethical standards. The aim is to position Europe as a global leader in the digital age through strategic investments and regulatory frameworks.
Many look for “European champions”, but what about the many European creative digital SMEs? What kind of policies do you want to make for them?
To achieve a supportive regulatory environment, it is crucial to reduce bureaucracy.
We recognise the importance of supporting European creative digital SMEs, as they are vital contributors to our digital economy and innovation landscape. Our aim is to create an enabling environment that fosters the growth and success of these SMEs through access to funding and resources, promotion of innovation and collaboration, and creating a supportive regulatory environment that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship while protecting consumers and ensuring fair competition. To achieve a supportive regulatory environment, it is crucial to reduce bureaucracy. Therefore, we aim to consolidate the complex EU legislation, streamline reporting requirements for businesses, and abolish unnecessary EU regulations.
How can Europe keep its diversity and creativity as a competitive advantage in the global digital world?
While digitisation brings numerous advantages, we must also acknowledge the associated risks, such as the potential loss of diversity and creativity. Within the European Union, our diverse cultures represent a significant asset, providing a wealth of different viewpoints that contribute to diversity and creativity. We should leverage this diversity as a competitive advantage.
To support cultural diversity in the digital world, we must embrace and celebrate the rich cultural heritage across Europe. This entails encouraging cross-cultural exchange and collaboration, fostering environments conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship. This can be achieved through investing in research and development, providing startups and SMEs with access to funding and resources, and promoting collaboration between academia, industry, and government.
It is essential to maintain a balance between protecting intellectual property rights and promoting a culture of innovation and creativity.
Furthermore, we should embrace open innovation models that facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing across borders. It is essential to maintain a balance between protecting intellectual property rights and promoting a culture of innovation and creativity. Additionally, we must support the growth of cultural and creative industries by offering funding, infrastructure, and regulatory support.
To bridge the digital divide, we must ensure universal access to digital technologies and opportunities for all individuals and communities. This includes equipping education systems with the necessary digital skills and competencies to thrive in the digital economy. Promoting lifelong learning and providing opportunities for upskilling and reskilling, particularly in creative and innovative fields, are crucial steps towards achieving this goal.
