The Cloud ConundrumThe European Union faces a pivotal moment in the digital era, particularly in tackling the pervasive influence of Big Tech in cloud infrastructure. Dominated by giants like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google, who control 72% of the European market, the EU must address the consequences of this power concentration, which extends far beyond just technological considerations.Underpinning Our Everyday LivesCloud infrastructure may sound intangibly vast, but in reality, it is the very backbone of modern society, supporting everything from governmental operations to essential public services. In the geopolitical arena, this dependency is a national security issue, as evidenced by past incidents like the Crowdstrike breach and AWS outages.Legislative Efforts and ShortcomingsWhile the EU has laid a strong foundation with legislative tools like the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and Data Act (DA), these efforts are insufficient without explicitly recognizing cloud providers as “gatekeepers” under the DMA. This designation could significantly alter the competitive landscape, counteracting anticompetitive behaviors and bolstering European digital sovereignty.Proactive SolutionsExperts urge the implementation of a common marketplace to foster diversity among cloud service providers. Participation in such a marketplace should be mandatory for transparency and equitable pricing – a concept already resonating within the European Commission and the European Alliance for Industrial Data, Edge, and Cloud.Strategic Implications on DemocracyThe existence of unchecked cloud power threats extends to democracy itself as dominant firms wield disproportionate influence, possibly overshadowing governmental efforts. As the policy debate evolves, some suggest treating cloud infrastructure akin to public utilities to ensure fair and open competition.Priority Call-to-ActionIn conclusion, the EU’s approach must pivot to include identifying cloud giants as gatekeepers to address these issues effectively. While the legislative groundwork is established, urgent enhancements are required to preserve Europe’s digital future, security, and democracy. According to Tech Policy Press, these adjustments are crucial for long-term success.Recognizing these facets will not only reclaim autonomy but also propel Europe towards a future where technological advances align consistently with public interests.