Berlin, Germany – Germany’s coalition government has unveiled new digitalisation plans in the strongest sign so far of the administration’s desire to become more tech savvy to enhance its economic competitiveness.
The multi-faceted strategy seeks to turn Germany into a powerhouse in its own right in the European digital world, driving innovation, smartening up public services and strengthening the country’s industrial base through investment and forward-looking standards.
The plan – released at a press conference earlier today – highlights major investment in digital connectivity such as the adoption of fibre-optic networks, as well as positioning Germany as a leading data center location in Europe. An essential focus of the initiative is the advancement of AI capabilities in the specific industry.
The government is committing big money to AI research and development with the target of forming “AI gigafactories” – the UK’s answer to batteries – as well as nurturing talent in the industry.
In addition, the digital strategy stresses the ethical and sustainable AI development and application. This includes provisions on data protection, transparency of AI algorithms and potential societal implications.
The Government will also collaborate closely with the European Union to synchronize national AI strategies with wider European rules, offering legal predictability to businesses and stimulating pan-European collaboration.
Another aspect of the new digital strategy focuses on the modernization of public administration through AI. The goal of the coalition is to transform the delivery of digital services to citizens and the way citizens interact with these services by using artificial intelligence to streamline processes, increasing efficiency and reducing costs.
This also involves considering how AI can support the judiciary to speed up processes and increase access to information.
More than technology, it acknowledges the importance of digital literacy and works toward a society in which all citizens enjoy solid digital skills. Programs of digital education and training for all ages are being developed to ensure that the German workforce is prepared for the growing requirements of a digital economy.
The government’s ambitious plan has largely been welcomed by industry leaders and tech experts, who see the opportunity that AI has to spur innovation and economic growth. But some have warned that the effectiveness of the strategy will hinge on timely and successful delivery, and sustained two-way conversations between government, industry and research.
Germany’s coalition government is sending a strong signal for shaping its future in the era of AI with the ambitious new digital strategy. The next few years will show whether Germany is able inspire with their implementation and that Germany can truly stake its claim to be a digital leader of Europe.
