Toward Technological Sovereignty

Rapid advances in artificial intelligence, biotechnology and quantum technologies are reshaping the foundations of prosperity, economic power and national security. This transformation is unfolding in a global environment where states are increasingly leveraging economic and technological interdependencies as instruments of power politics. In a world of increasingly distinct ​“technology spheres,” Germany and Europe must actively shape their strategic role, finding ways to seize new opportunities and protect their vital interests. 

Awareness of these imperatives has grown significantly in recent years. Concepts such as ​‘de-risking’ and ​‘technological sovereignty’ now feature prominently in policy debates, reflecting a broader recognition that technology policy, economic policy, security policy, and foreign policy can no longer be treated as separate domains. This growing awareness has, however, not (yet) translated into a coherent strategic approach. In many technology domains, Germany and Europe still lack a clear set of priorities and convincing concepts for managing dependencies and co-shaping international technology ecosystems. 

Building on GPPi’s earlier work on critical and emerging technologies, this project looks at how Germany and Europe can strengthen their sovereign agency and pursue their interests through international partnerships. Conceptually, it seeks to sharpen the understanding of technological sovereignty and derive practical implications for foreign policy. A central focus of the project is how to deepen cooperation with key middle powers, including the United Kingdom, India and Brazil, and how to navigate the changing relationship with the United States. To this end, GPPi will convene dedicated bilateral formats and forum exchanges such as the Munich Security Conference (MSC). 

At the same time, the project will advance the foundations of tech foreign policy in Germany and Europe by bringing together actors from government, industry and research for interactive formats in Berlin. Finally, the project will make analytical contributions on key issues at the intersection of technology, economics and security. 

The project is funded by the German Federal Foreign Office. 

For more information, please contact Jakob Hensing.