On 9 March 2021, the European Commission presented a vision and avenues for Europe’s digital transformation by 2030. The Commission proposes a Digital Compass for the EU’s digital decade that evolves around four cardinal points: competent, infrastructures, digital transformation of businesses and digitalisation of public services.
The digital rights and principles outlined in the declaration will complement existing rights, such as those rooted in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU, and data protection and privacy legislation. They will provide a reference framework for citizens on their digital rights, as well as guidance for EU Member States and for companies when dealing with new technologies. They are intended to help everyone in the EU get the most out of the digital transformation.
The proposed rights and principles are
Putting people and their rights at the centre of the digital transformation
Supporting solidarity and inclusion
Ensuring freedom of choice online
Fostering participation in the digital public space
Increasing safety, security and empowerment of individuals
Promoting the sustainability of the digital future
The Commission will provide an assessment of the implementation of the digital principles in the annual State of the Digital Decade report. The Commission will also conduct an annual Eurobarometer survey to monitor the follow-up measures in the Member States. The Eurobarometer will collect qualitative data, based on citizens’ perception of how the digital principles are put into practice in various Member States. The European Parliament and the Council of the European Union will discuss the proposal before adoption.
For further details:
Europe’s DigitalDecade: digital targets for 2030 – European Commission (europa.eu)