New EU Tech Lead Aims To Boost AI in Europe

The new head of Tech Security in the European Union will focus on building AI capabilities in Europe, including energy-efficient technologies, while protecting users, particularly minors, from the addictive nature of social media platforms.

In July, the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented her design of the European Commission 2024-2029, defining the role of the Executive Vice President for Tech Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy. The commissioner designate, Henna Virkkunen, has laid out her plans and priorities for this new role.

She will continue the EU-wide investigations into the impacts of social media, calling out the fact that “one in six school-age children is a victim of online bullying.” She will also work towards the “digital fairness act,” regulations designed to combat unethical practices online.

She also aims to foster innovation and investment in AI technologies to strengthen European sovereignty, reduce reliance on foreign contributions, and implement more regulations that protect consumers.

Virkkunen highlighted these challenges in her response to European Parliament questions, noting that “only 8% of EU businesses use AI, only 33% of our companies use cloud, and the data center footprint in Europe is one-third of that in the US.”

Virkkunen aims to develop new and disruptive technologies for both civilian and military purposes. Her focus includes combating criminal networks, improving border security measures, and fighting foreign interference in democracy.

She will also work with other commissioners to scale up the European defense industry, promoting cooperation between member states and improving access to public and private investment.

Henna Virkkunen, a Finnish politician, has been a Member of the European Parliament since 2014. During that time, she served on the Committees on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) and Transport and Tourism (TRAN), and she participated in the Special Committee on Artificial Intelligence in a Digital Age (AIDA).

Virkkunen has contributed to the Digital Markets Act (DMA), the Digital Services Act (DSA), the Cyber-Resilience Act, and the Connecting Europe Facility. Her confirmation hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, 12 November.