The European Union (EU) has become a guardian of digital governance. But, how did this happen? How has the EU been able to develop its comprehensive body of rules and policies, and what does it say about the European integration project? This open access book, written by high-ranking officials and independent experts in European digital policy, tells this story. Using accessible language and, often, first-hand experiences, the book responds to the questions of how Europe’s responsibilities have evolved and to what extent digital policy is a driver for European integration. It advances concepts like digital sovereignty, strategic autonomy and economic security in a wide range of thematic case studies: from artificial intelligence, data, to platform regulation. In addition, the book examines the international aspects of the EU’s digital policy and delves into Europe’s global governance ambitions, making it a volume of interest to journalists, academics, and business professionals.

Thibaut Kleiner is the Director for Future Networks in the digital department of the European Commission, DG CONNECT, the executive arm of the European Union. He has been with the European Commission since 2001 and has worked in the digital policy area since 2011. Thibaut is also a visiting Professor at the College of Europe. An economist by training, he holds a PhD from the London School of Economics and a master’s degree from HEC Paris. Thibaut has contributed to many books and articles throughout his career. 

Andrea G. Rodríguez is a quantum entrepreneur and digital policy researcher. She is currently Chair of the Governing Board at IMPAQT, a quantum technology consortium based in Delft, and an Associate Researcher at the Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS) in Brussels. She is also the Founder of The Policy Pulse and is often a lecturer at European universities. Previously, she has held positions in various think tanks such as CIDOB in Barcelona. Currently, Andrea is part of many advisory and working groups, increasing Europe’s leverage in emerging technologies vis-à-vis geopolitical giants.