Google Warns EU Risks Undermining Own Competitiveness With Tech Sovereignty Push

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by msmash

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Google’s president of global affairs and chief legal officer, Kent Walker, has cautioned that Europe’s push for digital sovereignty could inadvertently harm its competitiveness by limiting access to foreign technology. Speaking to the Financial Times, Walker warned that erecting barriers against U.S. tech giants may create a "competitive paradox," as the EU seeks to boost growth while restricting access to the very technologies needed to achieve it. He emphasized the risks of isolating Europe from some of the world’s best and fastest-evolving innovations. The EU’s efforts to reduce reliance on American tech companies have gained momentum, driven by concerns over U.S. foreign policy potentially leading to a tech decoupling. European leaders are increasingly focused on enhancing digital independence, as seen during a recent summit in Belgium aimed at boosting competitiveness in a volatile global economy. However, Walker argued that such measures could make it harder for Europe to leverage cutting-edge advancements, particularly in rapidly advancing fields like artificial intelligence and cloud computing. This issue is critical for readers interested in tech because it highlights the broader tensions between fostering innovation and ensuring economic independence. While Europe’s push for digital sovereignty aims to protect its interests, Walker suggests that overly restrictive policies could stifle growth and hinder collaboration with global tech leaders. The balance between safeguarding national interests and maintaining open access to technological advancements remains a key challenge for policymakers. Ultimately, the debate over digital sovereignty underscores the delicate interplay between economic competitiveness and technological reliance in an increasingly interconnected world. As Europe continues to navigate this complex landscape, the outcome of its digital sovereignty push could have far-reaching implications not only for its own tech sector but also for global innovation dynamics.

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Originally published on Slashdot on 2/14/2026