A new report from the European Commission's Open Source Observatory provides an in-depth qualitative analysis of open source policy across 15 European and non-European countries. It is based on the research carried out for the series of Open Source  Country Intelligence Reports by the OSOR team. Highlighting the increasing importance of open source technologies in the public sector, the report offers valuable insights for policymakers, public administration officials, and the open source community.

Key findings reveal that governments, including those in the EU, are adopting open source to enhance digital sovereignty, data privacy, and control over digital infrastructures. Open source has proven crucial during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, improving transparency and accelerating the rollout of essential digital services.

The report underscores the role of cities, regions, and municipalities in driving open source adoption due to its cost-effectiveness and local adaptability. Collaborative efforts among these entities and regional IT providers are essential for implementing regional digital services.

At the national level, innovative policy mechanisms are emerging, including the establishment of Open Source Programme Offices (OSPOs) and new funding strategies. International initiatives by the United Nations and the EU are also influencing national policies, promoting concepts like Digital Public Goods and Digital Commons.

Over the past five years, there has been a notable shift in open source policy trends. Governments are moving beyond legal considerations focused on public procurement to developing comprehensive strategies involving diverse stakeholders. This evolution addresses key aspects of sovereignty, transparency, and collaborative implementation.

The report marks a significant change in how open source policies are formulated and implemented, reflecting a broader, more inclusive approach to digital governance. Enjoy the read!