Our latest report: Seeking Opportunities and Mitigating Risks – The Way Forward for Central and Eastern Europe’s Digital Transformation is out!

Much has changed in transatlantic relations and digital cooperation since we began working on this report in early 2024. Despite some caveats, there was broad consensus that the US and the EU were strategic partners in the field of digital cooperation—an idea we have consistently promoted  in our past publications on digital transformation of Central and Eastern European (CEE) region.

However, shifting geopolitical dynamics and the new US administration have drastically altered the nature of this relationship. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has described the current era as one of harsh geopolitical competition. Despite these challenges there is space for cooperation in key areas, particularly in advancing digital transformation and ensuring that Europe remains a strong and competitive player in the global economy.

The CEE region has an important role to play in this process. As it seeks to strengthen its position in the global digital economy and the intensified geopolitical environment, it must navigate a landscape filled with both opportunities and challenges. While the region has demonstrated remarkable ambition and talent, turning potential into tangible progress requires strategic policymaking, investment in digital infrastructure, and a commitment to fostering innovation at all levels of society.

The aim of this publication is to explore different areas where the countries of the CEE region could play a more prominent role in advancing digital transformation and strengthening the EU’s competitiveness. All articles in this publication conclude with policy recommendations, offering policymakers some ideas on how to navigate this changed environment. In an era where digital leadership is closely tied to geopolitical influence, Europe and the CEE region cannot afford to stand still. Although written in a seemingly different era, these contributions remain highly relevant and provide valuable insights.

• Two major reports on improving EU’s competitiveness published last year, one by Mario Draghi and another by Enrico Letta, have set out ambitious strategies for Europe’s digital and economic progress. But the key question remains: will these ideas translate into real change? Barbara Matijašič tackles this challenge in her article, arguing that while Europe has no shortage of high-level strategies, the real issue lies in implementation. Without effective action, the gap between ambition and reality will only widen.
• Beyond policy debates, the practical dimensions of digital competitiveness are also at stake. Radu-Cristian Muşetescu and Mihai Sebe explore how CEE countries can contribute to and benefit from Europe’s digital transformation. They emphasize the need for a balance between fostering local innovation and scaling up digital industries to compete globally.
• One of the most pressing questions is whether the EU and the US can maintain a functional digital partnership despite these shifts. In her article, Andrea G. Rodríguez examines whether the EU-US Trade and Technology Council (TTC) can still serve as a viable platform for cooperation. With uncertainty surrounding the TTC’s future, Rodríguez highlights the key dilemmas that need to be addressed to prevent transatlantic digital policy from becoming another casualty of global tensions.
• Looking toward the future, Wiktor Sędkowski discusses the role of 6G and immersive technologies in bridging the digital divide and ensuring that Europe remains at the forefront of technological innovation. His article outlines how investments in connectivity, AI-driven services, and digital infrastructure can create a more inclusive and competitive digital ecosystem.
• Finally, no digital transformation strategy can succeed without robust cybersecurity. Ewelina Kasprzyk presents a case study on cybersecurity cooperation in the CEE region, highlighting how stronger regional frameworks and international partnerships can enhance resilience against growing cyber threats.