The project intends to follow up (through intense, yet analytical media content) with the preparation of the European and Slovak legislation, however concentrating on Transatlantic dimensions of them. This unexplored vicinity seeks to add up to the discussion on the European Digital Sovereignty in Slovakia. Furthermore, it aims to create a space for fruitful exchange of ideas amongst the most relevant actors. 

The EU has recently introduced its long-awaited strategy for data, as it promises “to open the door for an EU data revolution”. An advanced and resilient data sector is key for the future of European economy, as well as security, and it will be crucial to explore the role of the Transatlantic cooperation in its development. The project aims to focus on areas, where such cooperation is important and viable, such as common standards, and what such standards should look like in order not to close up the data space for an important actors, such as the United States. Non-EU companies may find themselves obliged to shift current operations substantially, which could be a sizeable barrier to the EU market and thus a “lose-lose” scenario. 

Therefore, particularly in 2020, when Europe will be polishing its European Data Space features, and Slovakia is preparing its crucial piece of legislation on data, EuroPolicy seeks to explore possible areas of Transatlantic cooperation in digital field, with a larger focus on data. While involving relevant stakeholder of the regional digital industry, the project intends to follow up (through intense, yet analytical media content) with the preparation of the European and Slovak legislation, however concentrating on Transatlantic dimensions of them. This unexplored vicinity seeks to add up to the discussion on the European Digital Sovereignty in Slovakia. Furthermore, it aims to create a space for fruitful exchange of ideas amongst the most relevant actors. 

As for now, this policy debate is very limited in Slovakia – due to circumstances, legislations preparation and with the new government in place – but it´s essential. Therefore, EuroPolicy will engage stakeholders from public and corporate sector spearheading this discussion, utilizing its know-how, reputation and expertise. 

Project carried out with the support from the U.S. Embassy grant.