At Utrecht University, we are concerned about our digital autonomy. Like other higher education institutions, we are becoming increasingly dependent on non-European technology suppliers. This dependence leaves us vulnerable. That is why, as a first step, we are now identifying our digital vulnerabilities and dependencies. This will form the basis of a roadmap for the coming years, leading towards a more digitally autonomous Utrecht University.
What is digital autonomy?
For Utrecht University, digital autonomy refers to our ability to independently shape the direction of our teaching and research, free from unwanted technological influence, protected against geopolitical risks, and with the option to switch suppliers at any time.
Why this initiative?
Like other higher education institutions, we are increasingly reliant on non-European technology suppliers for critical infrastructure. This reliance leaves us vulnerable in terms of geopolitics, jurisdiction, continuity and academic freedom. We have therefore set ourselves the goal of reducing our dependence on big tech in the coming years and have launched a university-wide initiative.
