How can Europe strengthen its digital sovereignty, cybersecurity, and resilience while preserving an open, global, and interconnected Internet? These questions were at the center of a high-level discussion entitled “Digital Sovereignty: How to Balance Resilience with Openness?” held at the European Parliament in Brussels on October 15, as part of the Internet Society’s global Community Advocacy Workshop.
Armenia was actively represented by Katarina Gevorgyan and Kristina Hakobyan, Board Members of the Internet Society Armenia Chapter.
The discussion was moderated by Sally Wentworth, President and CEO of the Internet Society. Speakers included Members of the European Parliament Sergey Lagodinsky and Kristian Vigenin, Esteve Sanz, representing the European Commission, and other community leaders.
During the discussion, Katarina Gevorgyan highlighted the importance of data protection and privacy in the context of Armenia’s digital development. She emphasized the need to protect personal data, strengthen user security, and build public trust in digital services. She also addressed how Armenia’s evolving relations with the European Union and the regional context could influence the country’s approach to digital sovereignty.
One of the key takeaways from the discussion was that digital sovereignty should not mean isolation or complete technological independence. Instead, it should help countries strengthen resilience, expand people’s choices, and ensure secure and reliable access to the Internet. Open standards, international cooperation, and active collaboration between civil society and the technical community are essential to achieving these goals.
These issues are particularly relevant for Armenia as the country continues to develop its digital services and policies. Personal data protection, transparency, accountability, and building public trust in digital government services should be key priorities in Armenia’s digital transformation.
Through its participation in international discussions and initiatives such as this one, the Internet Society Armenia Chapter continues to promote an open, secure, and inclusive Internet in Armenia while contributing to global discussions on Internet governance, digital rights, and responsible digital development.
