Name: Freedom, Diversity, and Sovereignty: The Power of Open Source in Europe’s Digital Future - John Samuel, Seventh State
Start: 2025-08-27T15:05:00+0200
End: 2025-08-27T15:45:00+0200

25-27, August 2025
Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Wednesday August 27, 2025 15:05 - 15:45 CEST

G105

As the world grows increasingly fragmented, Europe stands at a digital crossroads. The loss of digital independence threatens its cultural, intellectual, and economic values. Post-Brexit, freedom of movement has been constrained—now, Europe risks a similar fate in the digital realm. Dependence on proprietary, foreign technologies undermines Europe’s digital sovereignty and its ability to shape its future.

This talk explores why Europe must invest in open-source software to preserve its freedoms, diversity, and identity in an evolving digital ecosystem. Open-source is more than technology—it’s a path to autonomy, reduced corporate dependency, and dynamic local markets that drive innovation. As software reshapes our lives, open-source ensures Europe’s digital landscape remains as diverse as the continent itself.

We’ll examine how open-source can counter AI’s global, generic biases by fostering systems that reflect Europe’s rich cultural tapestry. By embracing open-source, Europe can protect its digital future and core freedoms of movement, trade, and expression that define its identity. What does Europe stand to lose if it fails to invest in open-source technologies?

Speakers

John Samuel

Founder and Business Leader, Seventh State

John Samuel is a technologist and founder of Seventh State, a UK-based boutique consultancy specializing in Open Source. With clients like Bloomberg, Orange, Paychex, and Siemens, he has a long-standing passion for technology, dating back to the 80s. He enjoys dismantling and reassembling... Read More →

Wednesday August 27, 2025 15:05 - 15:45 CEST
G105

OpenGovCon

Audience Experience Level Intermediate

Open Source Summit Europe 2025

John Samuel

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