Hosken:
The term ‘sovereignty’ is used by different providers in different ways, which can lead to confusion.
What does sovereign cloud mean for customers?
Michels explained that from a customer’s viewpoint, the concept of ‘sovereign’ cloud refers to a service that provides a high level of control. Customers have the authority to decide who can access their data stored in the cloud, specify the purposes for which their data can be utilized, and choose the region(s) where their data is stored. This model emphasizes transparency regarding sub-processors, metadata collection practices, and allows customers to make informed decisions about utilizing the service autonomously.
In broader terms, sovereign cloud embodies an ideal centered on customer choice and autonomy rather than a specific type of service. However, it also delves into concerns around foreign government access to data. The ability of a foreign government to compel disclosure without the customer’s knowledge raises significant issues for public sector entities dealing with defense and national security matters, as well as private companies handling GDPR-regulated personal data or commercially sensitive information stored in the cloud.
European Perspective on Cloud Sovereignty
The European Union has been actively promoting European cloud providers as part of its industrial strategy to bolster the EU economy and maintain competitiveness amid global uncertainties. There are growing concerns within EU policymakers about reliance on foreign service providers and ensuring strategic autonomy for European states.
Why Choose European Cloud Providers?
European organizations are gravitating towards local cloud services due to concerns over foreign government access rights inherent in American hyperscalers operating under U.S. jurisdiction. While U.S.-based providers offer transparency and data residency options through local centers, they remain subject to U.S. laws allowing potential access by American authorities.
By contrast, European cloud providers are perceived as offering greater immunity against jurisdictional challenges from other countries like the United States. This immunity becomes especially pronounced when these providers lack substantial connections or assets within U.S. borders.
Michels pointed out that while some customers continue leveraging traditional offerings from American hyperscale clouds for scalability benefits, there is increasing interest in strategically segregating workloads based on technical requirements, security needs, cost considerations, and regulatory compliance aspects.
Regulatory Drivers
One significant driver behind this shift towards sovereign clouds among European consumers is stringent regulations such as GDPR enforcement with potentially severe penalties for non-compliance issues related specifically to processing personal data.
Moreover,< h5>data portability challenges
, interoperability shortcomings between various cloud services hinder seamless integration across multiple providers while impeding smooth transitions during provider switches.
The ongoing legal ambiguity surrounding sovereignty requirements underlines < h5>the need for industry collaboration. A proposed Sovereign Cloud Code of Conduct could establish guidelines addressing risks associated with foreign government access rights concerning clients’ fundamental rights under GDPR regulations.
In conclusion:< h5> Michels emphasized regulation alongside commercial interests as key drivers prompting organizations toward embracing sovereign clouds
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Through this innovative approach towards secure data management via sovereign clouds coupled with industry-wide cooperation on establishing best practices like a code of conduct could pave the way forward ensuring enhanced protection levels for both customers’ critical information assets and European citizens’ privacy rights amidst challenging cybersecurity landscapes.
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