Transatlantic Technology Cooperation: Where Are We Headed?

With the Privacy Shield framework overturned by European Courts in 2020, data transfer between the transatlantic partners has become increasingly controversial. Fueled by the worldwide pandemic and the accelerated need for digital communication, American technology companies are further expanding their market penetration. Oftentimes, the discourse within the E.U. is dominated by data protection as a fundamental right, and by pursuing an agenda of digital sovereignty. The future and trajectory of a transatlantic data policy is uncertain.

This, however, puts the transatlantic partners in a unique position to restart their technology relationship and the opportunity to readdress these challenges together. The new Biden administration promises a return to cooperation and multilateralism. A joint Trade and Technology Council put forward by E.U. leaders could be a first step to establish a framework for cooperation based on shared values and principles. In light of China’s advancements in data driven business and new technologies, joining forces will consolidate the transatlantic alliance as a global standard-setter and digital leader.

With:

Bruno Gencarelli, Head of Unit International Data Flows and Protection, European Commission

Christopher Hoff, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Services, U.S. Department of Commerce

Martin Jetter, Chairman Europe, Middle East & Africa, IBM; Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Deutsche Börse Group

Iris Plöger, Member of the Executive Board, Federation of German Industries (BDI)

Moderated by David Deißner, Executive Director, Atlantik-Brücke.

We thank our corporate member IBM for their support.