Leading figures from Europe’s AI research community, industry, and innovation networks have issued a joint statement titled “Joining Forces for AI Development”. The initiative aims to strengthen Europe’s technological independence and build a sovereign, open and trustworthy AI ecosystem. Among the signatories is Prof. Dr Wolfgang Nejdl, Director of L3S.
Working Together for European AI Sovereignty
The declaration highlights the pivotal role of artificial intelligence in communication, research and the economy, calling for a united effort to actively shape the ongoing transformation. It sets out four key areas for collaboration:
- Open exchange of research results, models and datasets
- Joint projects linking scientific excellence with industrial applications
- A shared open-source foundation for AI development based on European quality standards
- Co-creation of frameworks for computing infrastructure, funding policies and regulation to ensure sustainable competitiveness
A Call to Policymakers and Industry
The signatories urge European and national decision-makers, industry partners and investors to commit to long-term funding, clear strategic direction and better coordination of political initiatives. Their vision: a European AI ecosystem that is open, transparent and rooted in shared values.
L3S as a Signatory
By endorsing the declaration, L3S reinforces its role as an active contributor to Europe’s AI landscape. “Joining Forces for AI Development” represents a common European approach to trustworthy, human-centred AI – a mission L3S has championed for many years.
Read the full declaration here.
