The State of the Digital Decade 2026: Progress, challenges and the role of digital investments | CONNECT University

The report highlights important achievements in areas such as connectivity, digitalisation of businesses, artificial intelligence uptake and digital public services. At the same time, it underlines persistent challenges, including digital skills shortages, advanced technology adoption, cybersecurity capabilities, semiconductor production and Europe's technological sovereignty.

Background

The 2026 State of the Digital Decade Report shows that Europe continues to make progress towards its digital objectives. Nearly 97% of households are now covered by basic 5G, almost one in five European companies deploy artificial intelligence, and more than 60% of Europeans possess at least basic digital skills. However, important gaps remain in areas such as semiconductor production, advanced computing capacity, ICT specialists, cybersecurity and the scale-up of digital technologies by businesses.

The report also stresses the importance of maintaining investment momentum beyond 2026 and strengthening coordination between the EU and Member States to achieve the Digital Decade objectives and reinforce Europe's technological sovereignty, competitiveness and resilience.

Further information is available in the press release.

Agenda

15:30 - 16:10

Welcome and introduction

Digital investments and the Recovery and Resilience Facility

Anne Michels, Economic Analyst, DG ECFIN

Julien Burton, Policy/Data Officer, DG CNECT

Presentation of the latest findings on digital investments under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), their contribution to Europe's digital transformation and their economic impact.

16:10 - 16:50

Presentation: The State of the Digital Decade 2026: Main findings and outlook

Eric Peters, Head of Unit, Digital Decade Coordination, DG CNECT

Presentation of the key results of the 2026 State of the Digital Decade Report, including progress towards the 2030 targets, remaining gaps, policy recommendations and future priorities for the Digital Decade framework.

16:50 - 17:00

Questions and answers

Closing remarks