Denmark Switches from Microsoft to LibreOffice and Linux
▼ Summary
– Denmark is shifting from Microsoft Office to LibreOffice to achieve “digital sovereignty,” reducing reliance on foreign tech providers like the U.S.
– The EU’s push for digital sovereignty stems from concerns over data control, geopolitical risks, and potential service disruptions due to political tensions.
– Denmark’s move follows incidents like Microsoft allegedly locking the ICC’s Chief Prosecutor out of his email after U.S. sanctions, raising trust issues.
– Financial factors also drive the shift, with Copenhagen’s Microsoft costs rising 72% in five years, prompting cost-saving measures.
– While some doubt the feasibility of transitioning to open-source software, proponents argue Denmark’s high digitalization makes it a logical starting point.
Denmark is making a bold move toward digital independence by transitioning from Microsoft Office to LibreOffice and Linux. This strategic shift reflects growing concerns across the European Union about reliance on foreign technology providers, particularly those based in the United States. The Danish government’s decision stems from a combination of security, economic, and political factors, with digital sovereignty emerging as a top priority.
The push for greater control over digital infrastructure gained momentum after reports surfaced that Microsoft allegedly locked the International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor out of his email accounts following U.S. sanctions. While Microsoft denied involvement, the incident raised alarms about the risks of depending on external providers during geopolitical tensions. Henrik Appel Espersen, chairman of Copenhagen’s Audit Committee, emphasized the vulnerability: “If political fallout disrupts email or internal communications, it becomes a critical issue.”
Beyond security, financial considerations played a role. Copenhagen’s Microsoft licensing costs surged by 72% in five years, reaching 538 million kroner ($53 million) in 2023. The steep increase prompted Danish officials to explore cost-effective alternatives like open-source software. Cities such as Copenhagen and Aarhus have already begun phasing out Microsoft products, opting instead for solutions like LibreOffice and Linux.
However, the transition won’t be seamless. Critics, including Mette Harbo, IT director for Denmark’s Capital Region, argue that completely abandoning Microsoft is unrealistic. Yet proponents like David Heinemeier Hansson, creator of Ruby on Rails, counter that Denmark’s heavy reliance on Microsoft makes it the ideal candidate to lead the charge for digital autonomy.
The debate extends beyond Denmark. Bart Groothuis, a Dutch member of the European Parliament, advocates for a “European cloud” to reduce dependence on U.S. tech giants. Meanwhile, Denmark’s Minister of Emergency Situations, Torsten Schack Pedersen, has urged businesses and agencies to develop exit strategies from American cloud services, stressing the importance of data ownership.
While challenges remain, Denmark’s shift signals a broader trend in the EU toward reclaiming control over digital ecosystems. Whether driven by security fears, financial pressures, or political strategy, the move highlights a growing determination to prioritize self-reliance in an increasingly interconnected world.
(Source: ZDNET)
