Denmark’s tech modernization company plans to switch Microsoft merchandise with open-source software program to cut back dependence on U.S. tech companies.
In an interview with the native newspaper Politiken, Danish Minister for Digitalisation Caroline Stage Olsen confirmed that over half of the ministry’s workers will swap from Microsoft Workplace to LibreOffice subsequent month, with a full transition to open-source software program by the top of the yr.
“If every part goes as anticipated, all staff can be on an open-source resolution throughout the autumn,” Politiken reported, quoting Stage. The transfer would additionally assist the ministry keep away from the expense of managing outdated Home windows 10 programs, which is able to lose official help in October.
LibreOffice, developed by the Berlin-based non-profit group The Doc Basis, is on the market for Home windows, macOS, and is the default workplace suite on many Linux programs. The suite contains instruments for phrase processing, spreadsheets, shows, vector graphics, databases, and components enhancing. Stage stated that the ministry might revert to Microsoft merchandise if the transition proves too advanced.
Microsoft had not responded to Recorded Future Information’ request for remark as of Friday morning, Japanese U.S. time.
The ministry’s choice follows related strikes by Denmark’s two largest municipalities, Copenhagen and Aarhus, which beforehand introduced plans to desert Microsoft software program, citing monetary considerations, market dominance and political tensions with Washington. Proponents seek advice from the method as shifting towards “digital sovereignty.”
Henrik Appel Espersen, chair of Copenhagen’s audit committee, informed Politiken the transfer was pushed by value considerations and Microsoft’s robust grip in the marketplace. He additionally cited tensions between the U.S. and Denmark throughout Donald Trump’s presidency, which sparked debate about information safety and decreasing reliance on international know-how.
The shift comes amid a wider European development towards digital independence. This week, the German state of Schleswig-Holstein said that native authorities companies will abandon Microsoft Workplace instruments similar to Phrase and Excel in favor of LibreOffice, whereas Open-Xchange will exchange Microsoft Outlook for e-mail and calendar capabilities. The state plans to finish the shift by migrating to the Linux working system within the coming years.
Schleswig-Holstein first announced its choice to desert Microsoft final April, saying it will be “the primary state to introduce a digitally sovereign IT office.” “Unbiased, sustainable, safe: Schleswig-Holstein can be a digital pioneer area,” the state’s Minister-President stated on the time.
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