"Data centers are often overlooked in the EU's digital transformation"

Interview with Regina Donato Dahlström, CEO of Equinix Sweden.

The pace of digital development is fast and in several areas the EU has struggled to keep up with the countries and regions leading the way globally. What do you think is most important to strengthen the EU's digital competitiveness? 

- Digital infrastructure is the foundation of our economy and our digital society. But there are bottlenecks such as congested networks, lack of sufficient clean energy and well-trained technical workforce. These are areas that need to be strengthened in the EU and I believe that priority should be given to the development of digital infrastructure, including data centers and fiber routes, which are crucial to support advanced technologies and the economy at large," said Regina Donato Dahlsröm.

A common criticism of digitalization policies in the EU is that the regulatory burden has increased significantly in recent years. Do you share this view and how does it affect your business? 

- Yes, we are seeing more and more overlapping reporting obligations across the EU, where we have to report the same information several times to different places, costing time and money. Well-designed regulation can help create a level playing field and set minimum standards, but regulators need to take the time to understand our sector and business models. 

Sweden will soon elect 21 Members of the European Parliament. What are your messages to the candidates and what three issues would you like them to pursue in Brussels to promote the development of a competitive and sustainable digital Sweden? 

1. create a proportionate and well thought-out regulatory framework for digital infrastructure that helps to create a level playing field and set minimum standards. 

2. data centers are often overlooked in the EU's digital transformation, even though they are literally the digital foundation on which everything is built. 

3. support and invest in research and education on digital infrastructure to keep our economy competitive.