Promoting digital skills and competences has long been one of the EU’s objectives; however, the Coronavirus crisis has once again clearly confirmed the urgency of appropriate measures. The intention is to give special support to disadvantaged groups of the population whilst at the same time avoiding that already existing gaps widen even more.

Hardly any technological development is racing at the speed of Artificial Intelligence. It is also playing a not to be underestimated role in connection with the COVID-19 crisis. However, in spite of all the advantages the technology has to offer, it is vital that employees, consumers and the environment are adequately protected against the dangers it poses.

Since the outbreak of the Covid-19 crisis, a huge amount of fake news has been spread across the internet. Now, the Commission has recommended measures to improve the fight against future disinformation. However, comprehensive protection of internet users also requires the consequent protection of their data.

The COVID-19 crisis once more shows the necessity and urgency of a Digital Services Act. The issue is now also dealt with by the European Parliament apart from being the reason for Commissioner for Digital, Margrethe Vestager, to be invited to an exchange of views.

Whether telework, e-Learning or 5G networks: the continuing Coronavirus crisis is likely to accelerate digitalization in many areas of life. Hence, one of the self-proclaimed core issues of the European Commission has come even more into focus.