Europe Seen as Key Market for Data Sovereignty Technology

Europe is expected to become a leading market for emerging data sovereignty technologies, according to American technology entrepreneur Eric Swider.

Speaking on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit in Dubai, Swider told Euronews that governments are increasingly focused on data ownership, privacy and artificial intelligence.

Swider said global summits allow policy discussions to move beyond theory and into practical implementation.

“I think that having an opportunity to attend a summit like this is very unique because you're able to meet so many people from around the globe but yet take those conversations to a very local level,” he said.

Platform Focused on Data Ownership

Swider introduced what he described as a “reality intelligence-based platform,” designed to give individuals and governments greater control over their data.

According to him, the platform differs from conventional AI systems by relying on user-owned information instead of large external datasets. The system stores personal data within a private blockchain controlled by the user.

He said this approach allows individuals to decide how their data is used and potentially monetised.

“So now the individual controls their data, monetises their data, and that data becomes the large language model that helps you in your life,” Swider said.

He added that the technology could change digital commerce by reducing reliance on major technology firms.

“This technology is the first technology that's going to start to take data away from big tech,” he said, arguing that users rather than large platforms could benefit financially from their own data.

Europe’s Regulatory Environment

Swider said Europe’s strong data protection framework makes it a natural market for such solutions.

“Europe has been leading the charge in data privacy and getting data back to the owners,” he said.

The European Union has introduced strict regulations on data protection and digital markets in recent years, positioning the region as a global leader in privacy standards.

Potential Healthcare Applications

Swider also highlighted possible applications in healthcare. He suggested that unified medical records stored on blockchain systems could allow individuals to retain ownership of sensitive information.

Under such a model, citizens would decide who can access their data and when. He said encrypted blockchain-based systems could offer stronger protection compared to traditional databases.

While acknowledging concerns around security, Swider said blockchain technology provides safeguards through encryption and decentralisation.

The proposal reflects broader global discussions on how artificial intelligence and digital platforms should handle personal information, as governments weigh innovation against privacy protection.