Increasing Digitalization in the EU | ePact
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Increasing Digitalization in the EU

Increasing Digitalization in the EU
Profile image of Victor Holmark
Victor Holmark
May 14, 2024

Over the past five years, digitalization in the EU has evolved with remarkable speed and scope, profoundly impacting nearly every aspect of society. One of the most notable developments has been the transition to a more digital economy and society, where technology plays a central role in virtually every activity and sector.

The increasing digitalization has seen an explosion of digital services and platforms across commerce, education, healthcare, finance, public administration, and more. Consumers and businesses increasingly rely on digital solutions to perform daily tasks, communicate, trade, and work.

A significant driver behind the increased digitalization has been the emergence of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and cloud computing. These technologies have enabled new forms of innovation, efficiency, and automation across various sectors and have contributed to creating new business models and opportunities.

Alongside technological development, the EU has also intensified its efforts to regulate and strengthen the digital economy through legislation such as GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), eIDAS (Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services), and Digital Services Act (DSA). These regulations aim to protect consumer rights, promote trust in digital services, and regulate the behavior of technology companies.

The increasing digitalization has also raised important questions about digital inclusion, data security, labor market transformation, and future skills. The EU has responded by investing in digital skills programs, infrastructure development, and innovation, as well as by promoting ethical guidelines and standards for technological development. Denmark is one of the most digitalized countries in the world and the second most digitalized country in the EU. The digital inclusion of Danes and easy access to the internet play a major role in Denmark's ranking on this list.