Today, the European Commission has presented its main digital initiatives, ‘Shaping Europe's digital future’, ‘A European strategy for data’ and the whitepaper on Artificial Intelligence (AI), to the public. 

S&D members working on the European digital agenda ask for stronger laws, a level playing field for companies of all sizes and, most importantly, for a citizen-focused digital transition that leaves nobody behind.

Ismail Ertug, S&D Group vice-president in charge of the digital agenda, commented:

“An updated strategy for the digital age is of utmost importance. The European Commission’s proposals discuss the weaknesses of the current legislative framework and set out options and alternatives for the future. However, there is lot of room for improvement, in particular strengthening the social dimension of the digital revolution.

“Digital trends should benefit all citizens, not just businesses and markets. The EU needs a human-centric approach. We need a ‘digital culture’ leading to active citizenship in the digital world through knowledge, skills and competence. Deepfake election campaigns can influence the masses and are becoming a real threat to democracy, as what recently happened in India. We need a level-playing field for big and small companies.” 

“Our group has worked on its own ideas for several months. We developed a vision of an ethical digital revolution, leaving nobody behind. With clear liabilities. With fundamental rights being protected. With AI without bias. A revolution that serves humans and makes Europe stronger for the 21st century.

“The public consultations will begin soon. We are in the unique position to define the rules for the digital world for the upcoming years - for the people.”    

S&D press contact