The New Sovereignty in Internet Governance

This paper delves into the intriguing shift in the European Union's stance on Internet governance, where, contrary to its usual commitment to multilateralism, a pronounced emphasis on sovereignty claims has emerged. As the digital sphere becomes increasingly geopolitically significant, this project investigates the underlying reasons prompting the EU's adoption of sovereigntist policies in this global domain. Through the lens of asymmetrical interdependencies, changing security landscapes, and competing systemic approaches, the study aims to unravel the complex factors influencing the EU's digital policies. Utilizing a methodology involving case studies, process tracing, and qualitative content analysis, the actor centered research investigates how global factors influence the decision-making procedures of European policy makers. In doing so, the project seeks to expose insights into the practical application of sovereignty, the geopolitical dimensions of digital transformation, and the EU's strategic positioning in the global landscape. By dissecting the interplay between global forces and EU digital policies, this research contributes to a nuanced understanding of contemporary sovereignty dynamics and the geopolitical considerations that shape decision-making in the realm of Internet governance. Ultimately, the findings of this study offer valuable insights into the evolving landscape of digital governance and contribute to the broader discourse on the balance between global cooperation and national sovereignty in an increasingly interconnected world.