A digital transformation that supports local and regional authorities, stimulates innovation, facilitates the exchange of solutions, builds capacity, and protects fundamental EU values—that is the vision of Living-in.EU and its more than 200 signatories as they call for action in the second term of the Digital Europe Programme (DEP).

Launched under the 2021-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), the DEP embodies the European Commission’s ambition to secure European technological leadership. Its primary goal is to drive the digital transition in the EU by promoting the adoption of digital technologies by public administrations, businesses, and citizens while enhancing digital skills in the workforce.

At the time of its mid-term review, Living-in.EU signatories submitted their future needs, challenges, and proposed improvements for the upcoming DEP work programmes through the European Commission’s open consultation.

An opportunity for Living-in.EU member cities and regions to express their views on the DEP

During a webinar for signatories on 11 September 2024, Living-in.EU member cities and regions shared their challenges, needs, and suggestions for improving the programme. While participants agreed on the relevance of its strategic objectives and the expected benefits, they were eager to address several significant shortcomings.

One key issue is the digital divide, with only 56% of the population possessing basic digital skills. Although local and regional administrations are investing in digitising their services, only half of EU citizens currently have the skills needed to access these services. DEP’s future work programmes should offer stronger financial support to local and regional authorities for initiatives in digital skills mentoring, training, skills development, and awareness-raising. There should be a particular focus on foundational digital skills, such as media literacy and AI-awareness.

Another concern is DEP’s funding rate, which poses a barrier to participation in its calls. Currently, the DEP requires both the public and private sectors to co-fund actions at a 50% rate, a condition that is often unfeasible for the public sector due to budget constraints. Living-in.EU members stressed the importance of identifying co-funding sources for public bodies, such as the European Digital Infrastructure Consortium (EDICs), initiatives promoted by the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs), or other national funds.

Living-in.EU signatories also emphasized the need for a stronger focus on the ecological impact of digital infrastructure. DEP is expected to have a significant impact on sustainability, resilience, and energy efficiency. As such, upcoming DEP work programmes should further strengthen the link between green, digital, and social objectives, including tools to measure and reduce the ecological impact of technology.

A pivotal role for Living-in.EU in shaping the digital future

Given the challenges ahead and the crucial role of local and regional authorities in the digital economy, Living-in.EU serves as a key reference point for smart cities and communities. The initiative supports the development of tools like LORDIMAS, the Local and Regional Digital Maturity Assessment tool, and facilitates knowledge exchange and capacity-building. DEP should reinforce its support for such initiatives, as their activities provide essential backing for a digital transformation that benefits everyone.

The full Living-in.EU response to the DEP’s open consultation is accessible here