The European Committee of the Regions (CoR) today hosted a consultation led by Rapporteur Pehr Granfalk (SE/EPP), Member of the Municipal Council of Solna Municipality, as part of the preparation of the CoR opinion on the “Digital Simplification and Data Union Strategy.” The consultation focused on three key European Commission initiatives: the Data Union Strategy, the Digital Omnibus regulation, and the Digital Omnibus on Artificial Intelligence (AI). The discussion brought together local and regional perspectives on how these proposals will affect municipalities and regions across Europe.
Unlocking Data for Innovation – With Local Support
On the Data Union Strategy, the rapporteur welcomed the Commission’s view that “data is a gold mine” that can drive innovation and development, particularly at local and regional level. However, he underlined that municipalities and regions are often the holders of valuable public data, and making this data available requires time, resources, and adjustments to existing IT systems. While EU-level solutions are important, local and regional authorities (LRAs) stressed that practical support on the ground will be essential to turn strategy into reality. Changes in compliance rules may also require adjustments to internal processes and governance models, placing additional pressure on administrations – especially smaller municipalities with limited capacity.
Simplifying Digital Rules – Without Adding Burden
The proposed Digital Omnibus regulation aims to reduce complexity in digital legislation. Among the measures discussed were the creation of unified data reuse rules and the establishment of a Single Information Point for data reuse in each Member State. Participants welcomed the ambition to streamline procedures and improve clarity. The proposal also includes a single entry point for incident reporting through the EU Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA). While this was seen as a logical step forward, concerns were raised about the practical reality for municipalities dealing with cyberattacks. Reporting obligations must take into account that local authorities are often managing crisis situations while simultaneously trying to meet administrative requirements.
Adjustments to the AI Act – Clarity and Support Needed
Regarding the Digital Omnibus on AI, the rapporteur noted positively the reduction in registration burdens, particularly in the health sector, where many AI tools perform limited and specific tasks. Adjustments related to pseudonymised data and extended timelines were also seen as realistic improvements. However, changes to the application dates of the AI Act, linked to the availability of standards and support tools, could create confusion. Local and regional authorities emphasised the need for clear guidance and continuous support throughout all phases of implementation.
A Call for Partnership
The consultation highlighted strong alignment with the EU’s digital ambitions, but also underlined that successful implementation depends on close cooperation with local and regional authorities. As Rapporteur Pehr Granfalk stressed, digital simplification must not only reduce complexity at EU level, but also work in practice for municipalities and regions that deliver services directly to citizens. The Committee of the Regions will take these perspectives into account in the preparation of its upcoming opinion on the Digital Simplification and Data Union Strategy.
The opinion is sheduled for adoption in the May Plenary Session of the CoR.