Every click, scroll, and stream relies on systems designed and controlled far beyond Europe’s borders. “Attention, otherwise we are offline,” a new article by the Philipp Bovermann in Süddeutsche Zeitung, exposes Europe’s critical dependence on external digital infrastructure—and the risks of failing to act now.

The article presents a bold vision for a European digital sphere rooted in public values, not private algorithms. From ZDF Mediathek’s push for user-centered streaming to calls for deeper collaboration across European media systems, it outlines a practical—and urgent—path forward.

We are pleased that the Council for European Public Space is mentioned as a key actor in this effort. The article supports our mission: to foster open, democratic, and interconnected public media spaces that serve citizens across borders.

It’s a strong call to action—for policymakers, media institutions, and civil society—to invest in the infrastructure that a digital European democracy needs.