What the EU does
The EU works on shaping Europe's digital present and future. It supports, funds and regulates new technologies to strengthen our democracy and to make Europe safer, more competitive and technologically independent. The EU also sets rules for how online platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) are used.
To secure Europe’s digital future, the EU aims at becoming a leading continent in artificial intelligence (AI) innovation and strategic technologies, while being able to rely on its own digital systems and tools.
To strengthen democracy, the EU makes sure that digital laws provide a safe space and fair online markets, support free media and counter disinformation.
To make Europe safer, the EU invests in cybersecurity to defend against cyber and hybrid security threats.
The EU’s main digital policy objectives are to
- make AI tools and services safe and trustworthy
- increase European independence in strategic digital technologies (such as AI, semiconductors, cloud and quantum computing)
- enable businesses and administrations to share data seamlessly
- foster and protect Europe’s critical digital infrastructure
- facilitate secure and fast connectivity
- make online platforms safer and more trustworthy
- protect media freedom and democracy online
- reach Europe’s Digital Decade targets by 2030.
Key figures
Areas of action
A human-centric plan to reach Europe’s ambitious digital targets by 2030
The EU’s centre of expertise supporting safe and trustworthy AI development
EU measures to protect Europe against cyber threats and keep us safe online
Unlocking the potential of data to boost our economy with respect for European values
Making the EU the most connected continent by 2030 with high-speed internet access for all
Support for the EU’s digital transition, audiovisual sector and free media
EU rules for a safe digital space protecting users and regulating online platforms and intermediaries
EU rules for gatekeeper online platforms to keep our digital market fair and competitive
Protecting and empowering children and young people to stay safe online
Key achievements
- The EU has pioneered a legal framework for governing online platforms and artificial intelligence in the EU, setting global standards for digital regulation.
- It has created a framework to make Europe more competitive, facilitate innovation and encourage better use of data – through actions such targeted funding (for instance for semiconductors), and initiatives such as multi-country projects, or European Digital Innovation Hubs.
- The EU has invested in cutting-edge technologies, including high-performance computing and quantum technologies, and has set up AI factories.
- To support democracy and empower citizens, the EU has introduced tools like the European digital identity (eID) wallet, promoted digital skills, protected journalists’ rights and supported the fight against disinformation.
- The EU has expanded digital infrastructures, and improved connectivity, while building capacity in numerous areas - from cybersecurity to electronic communication and submarine cables.
In focus
As children spend more time online than ever before, their safety has become a major concern. To prevent exposure to harmful and illegal content, the Commission is proposing an innovative European solution.
The European age verification app will allow users to prove their age without sharing unnecessary personal data and to browse the internet in full privacy, while ensuring that children cannot access inappropriate content.
The app is now ready for deployment. The Commission is urging EU countries to accelerate its rollout, aiming to make it available to citizens by the end of 2026.
This page was last updated on 22 May 2026