# Europe's tech dependence poses risks to democracy Bruno Giussani explains the dangers of reliance on US tech giants - **Source:** [TED Talks Daily](https://brifing.si/source/5463abef-1da8-431d-90d1-6098532a0790) - **Published:** 2026-07-21 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/b9c37676-78a5-48f7-b304-6ffd1540d167 ## Europe's technological dilemma Most technologies shaping our daily lives - chatbots, cloud systems, digital infrastructure - are controlled by US-based companies. Bruno Giussani argues this dependence has crossed from convenience to risk. He emphasizes Europe needs to develop its own technological alternatives. ## The clash between democracy and tech Giussani contends that big tech business models conflict with democratic values. These data-collecting systems contradict Europe's understanding of fundamental rights. This situation risks weakening democratic institutions in the long term. ## Analysis of current situation Over 80% of Europe's digital infrastructure belongs to US companies. This monopoly weakens Europe in areas from cybersecurity to data sovereignty. Giussani notes this creates strategic vulnerability that needs addressing. ## Alternative vision As solution, Giussani advocates for Europe to develop new tech models prioritizing user privacy. 'Technology that doesn't spy on you - that should be Europe's digital difference,' he says. He emphasizes this model must be open-source and transparent. ## Actionable steps Giussani's proposal isn't complete isolation but building alternative ecosystem. He suggests public-private partnerships, R&D investments and startup support. Europe's technical capabilities need mobilization in this direction. ## Call to action This issue concerns not just technology but Europe's digital sovereignty and democratic values. Giussani argues citizens, politicians and entrepreneurs must act. He offers hope that an alternative model is possible with collective effort. ## Sources covering this story - http://go.ted.com/brunogiussani — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._