The German Center for Digital Sovereignty (ZenDis) has highlighted significant threats to data security and independence in the country's public sector under the US CLOUD Act of 2018. According to ZenDis spokesperson Lutz Niemeyer, all data stored in US databases is potentially at risk, and the state has a duty to safeguard critical information entrusted by citizens.

ZenDis has developed the "openDesk" software suite to reduce Germany's reliance on US companies like Microsoft. This open-source office solution focuses on security and digital sovereignty for government agencies. ZenDis Managing Director Pamela Krosta-Hartl explained that the center integrated various local and European products to create a unified interface, enhancing independence.

Founded in 2022 with €16 million in government funding, ZenDis has sold 160,000 openDesk licenses. Last year's turnover exceeded €18 million, with interest extending beyond the public sector to private companies, particularly in financial services. However, as a government-owned entity, ZenDis can only generate 20% of its income from the private sector.

Amid Germany's push for digital sovereignty, a deal between major electricity producer RWE and Amazon has sparked debate. Krosta-Hartl warned of risks, including political blackmail, associated with using US cloud services. She also noted that Donald Trump, leveraging his ties to the tech industry, could manipulate unrelated issues, underscoring the need for companies to consider digital sovereignty in risk assessments.

ZenDis's reach extends beyond Germany, with engagements including a Spanish telecommunications company, demonstrating the initiative's broad impact. Overall, ZenDis's efforts represent a critical step toward reducing dependence on US technology and strengthening Germany's digital independence.

Source: www.dw.com