18th November 2025
Minister of State for Trade Promotion, AI and Digital Transformation, Niamh Smyth today signed the Declaration for European Digital Sovereignty on behalf of Ireland at a ministerial summit in Berlin, joining fellow European Union Member States in a commitment to strengthen Europe's ability to act independently and competitively in the digital sphere while maintaining openness to global collaboration.
The Declaration establishes a common framework for enhancing Europe's digital capabilities while preserving access to open markets, interoperability, and international collaboration with partners who share European values. It emphasises that digital sovereignty is not about isolation or protectionism, but about ensuring Europe can make autonomous decisions regarding digital infrastructure, data, and technologies based on evidence and concrete risk assessment.
"By signing this Declaration, Ireland reaffirms its commitment to building a digitally sovereign Europe that protects our democratic values, supports innovation, and strengthens our economic resilience," said Minister Smyth.
"This is about ensuring that Ireland and Europe can shape our digital future on our own terms, while remaining open to international cooperation and the trusted partners who have been part of our success for decades."
The Declaration was signed during a high-level ministerial summit in Berlin. The summit focused on critical issues for Europe's digital future, including discussions on the Digital Omnibus package as Europe's fast track to greater competitiveness. Minister Smyth participated in extensive discussions with her European counterparts, including bilateral meetings with Finland's Minister of Transport and Communications, Ms Lulu Ranne, and Luxembourg's Minister Delegate for Media and Connectivity, Ms Elisabeth Margue.
"We must pursue digital sovereignty in an open manner," said Minister Smyth. “A collaborative approach makes the EU stronger in the long run and creates opportunities for EU companies to export future technologies to markets outside the bloc."
"Ireland is ready to contribute our expertise and work closely with the European Commission and our European partners to turn this shared vision into reality," concluded Minister Smyth. "Together, we can build a digitally sovereign Europe that is resilient, competitive and true to our values."
Minister Smyth also attended a dedicated side meeting on minimum age for social media and online protection of minors, hosted by France and Denmark, alongside ministerial colleagues from Greece, Cyprus, Spain, Slovenia and France.
"We need robust regulation to ensure platforms provide easy-to-use parental controls, so families can shape their online experiences together. At the same time, we must support parents through information sharing and awareness raising. It's vital that we take into account the views of children themselves and involve parents and families in these discussions." Minister Smyth said.
ENDS
Back to Department News