The European Union has unveiled a comprehensive International Digital Strategy that emphasizes centralized digital identity systems and regulatory frameworks, raising significant concerns about online freedoms and privacy.

This strategy reflects a troubling convergence of state power and corporate interests, envisioning a tightly controlled digital ecosystem that limits privacy and anonymous online participation.

Privacy advocates are particularly wary of the interoperability of digital ID programs, fearing they could serve as tools for government surveillance under the pretext of efficiency.

To bolster these initiatives, the European Commission plans to collaborate with foreign governments in promoting digital identity systems and Digital Public Infrastructure, with backing from organizations like the United Nations and the World Economic Forum.

The strategy encourages alignment with countries such as India, Brazil, Egypt, and Uruguay on digital ID interoperability and public infrastructure, supporting the UN’s Global Digital Compact aimed at shaping global internet governance.

Additionally, the strategy includes measures for enhanced global digital regulation and laws governing online speech, which are linked to the enforcement of the Digital Services Act (DSA).

The DSA emphasizes age verification requirements, framing the protection of minors online as a priority, which may result in increased surveillance and moderation tools.

It also imposes extensive compliance obligations on platforms, including child protection measures and online identification requirements, often used to justify heightened content moderation.

Moreover, the EU has pledged to combat Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI), promising greater attribution of such activities to control information and delegitimize foreign narratives.

Critics have raised alarms over the EU's Digital Identity Wallet initiative, suggesting it could lead to greater government control over personal data.

Finally, the strategy aims for mutual recognition of electronic trust services, including digital IDs, with partner nations like Ukraine, Moldova, and various countries in the Balkans and Latin America.