Negotiators from the Council of the EU and the European Parliament have reached a provisional agreement on the European declaration on digital rights and principles for the digital decade (see EUROPE 12978/23) on the evening of Monday 14 November.
“This declaration sets out a European way forward for the digital transformation of our societies and economies. (...) I also hope that it will set an international benchmark and inspire other countries and organisations to follow our example”, said Czech Deputy Prime Minister for Digitisation Ivan Bartoš.
The details of the text agreed by the negotiators is intended to serve as a reference point for companies and other stakeholders involved in the development and deployment of new technologies.
In addition, the text also aims to put people at the centre of the digital transformation, to support solidarity and inclusion, to ensure connectivity, education, training and digital skills, as well as access to digital services online.
In addition to urging policy makers to use these aspects as a guide when designing digital policies, the declaration also emphasises the importance of freedom of choice when interacting with algorithms and artificial intelligence systems.
Finally, a section of the declaration is devoted to strengthening safety in the digital environment, especially in relation to children and young people. Another part of the text notes the importance of supporting the development, deployment and use of sustainable technologies.
The text will now have to be voted on in the European Parliament plenary and will be formally adopted by the EU Council. In relation to this point, the Czech Presidency of the EU Council has indicated that it intends to submit the provisional political agreement as soon as possible to the Member States’ ambassadors to the EU (‘Coreper’), with the aim of it being finally adopted by the various institutions in December. (Original version in French by Thomas Mangin)