The European Union as a Global Digital Power
This book provides an interdisciplinary, policy-focused analysis of the EU’s digital ambitions and strategies. As the digital sphere becomes an increasingly important area of governance and global influence, the book examines how the EU is shaping norms, laws and technologies in order to assert its leadership in this field. Drawing on insights from international relations, political science, law and public administration, the narrative critically assesses the EU’s digital statecraft.
Key themes include digital sovereignty, regulatory exports via the 'Brussels Effect', digital diplomacy, infrastructure development, and the EU’s normative agenda. Framed by a comparative perspective, the book contrasts EU digital strategies with those of the United States and China. It also assesses how digital policy supports broader foreign and development goals, including through instruments such as the Global Gateway Initiative.
The book maps and evaluates the EU’s distinct approach to digital governance, exploring the viability and sustainability of its role as a global digital actor. Offering a timely assessment of strategic dilemmas and policy outcomes, it provides practical insights for students, scholars, researchers, policymakers, and digital stakeholders.
David Ramiro Troitiño is a Professor at Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia and a Jean Monnet Chair in Digital Europe and Future Integration. He coordinates a Jean Monnet Network that takes a multidisciplinary view of the digital integration process in the European Union. He is the author of over 200 publications, including five Springer books on topics related to the European Union, as well as being the editor and author of several chapters in books such as: 'The European Union and its Political Leaders' (2022) and 'International Society and Europeanism' (2025). His research focuses on the European Union from a broad perspective, approaching it as a process.
Meelis Kitsing is Rector and Professor of Political Economy at the Estonian Business School (EBS) in Tallinn (Estonia). His research focuses on the comparative and international political economy of innovation, technology governance, and digital platform ecosystems. Prior to joining EBS, he held senior policy and research positions in the Estonian government and Parliament. Kitsing has taught and conducted research at leading universities in Europe and North America and has published widely on political economy, innovation, and public policy. He holds a PhD from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (USA), a MALD from Tufts University (USA), and an MSc from the London School of Economics and Political Science (UK).