Since 2023, the digital public infrastructure (DPI) movement has gained global momentum, driven by the promise of improving financial inclusion, strengthening public and private service delivery, and enabling innovation. DPI refers to foundational digital systems, such as digital identity, payments, and data exchange, that allow private innovation to flourish securely and efficiently on shared public rails. It is now a central feature of development and governance discourse.
The Indian model, exemplified by the government-led IndiaStack, is the most visible and influential approach to DPI today. Yet, European policymakers, technologists, and civil society actors are articulating an alternative path. Emerging initiatives such as the EuroStack seek to promote participatory and commons-based infrastructures, underpinned by interoperable open-source technologies, and strategic autonomy over critical infrastructures.
At stake is how societies design and govern digital identity, payments, and data infrastructures across borders and who will govern the rails of Europe's digital future: states, markets, or commons. This session will explore the competing governance models and standards that will define the next era of European DPI, and launch a new white paper to frame a path forward. Participants will be encouraged to create a working group and make cross-sector commitments that can inform national pilots and lay the foundation for EU-level coordination.
Insights Forum
Roundtable Room 4, Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Level 4
