The European Commission has identified four key technologies, including artificial intelligence, advanced semiconductors, quantum computing, and biotechnology, as posing potential risks to the economic security of the European Union. These technologies are deemed to have sensitive and immediate risks associated with them.
Furthermore, the Commission intends to conduct risk assessments for these technologies by the end of the year as part of the European Economic Security Strategy. This strategy aims to address various risks, including supply chain resilience, physical and cyber security of critical infrastructures, technology security, and economic dependency weaponization.
While emphasizing that the assessments do not preordain outcomes, the Commission seeks to establish a united EU position in response to technological risks. It underscores the importance of maintaining a technological edge and addressing dependencies to remain a predictable global partner amid ongoing geopolitical competition.
The assessment does not explicitly focus on any third countries, though it aligns with the EU’s policy of “de-risking” rather than “decoupling” from China. European Commissioner for the Internal Market, Thierry Breton, stressed the need for continuous monitoring of critical technologies, risk assessment, and the preservation of strategic interests and security. The EU aims to adapt to new geopolitical realities and assert itself as a genuine geopolitical power.
