Denmark's Ministry of Digital Affairs is embarking on a significant transition from Microsoft Office to the open-source suite LibreOffice, marking a pivotal step toward enhancing the nation's digital sovereignty. This move reflects a broader European trend where governments are reevaluating their reliance on proprietary software to gain greater control over their digital infrastructures.
The Shift to LibreOffice
The Ministry's decision to adopt LibreOffice is driven by a desire to reduce dependence on foreign technology providers and to bolster national control over public digital infrastructure. Digitalisation Minister Caroline Stage Olsen emphasized the importance of this transition, stating that while Denmark remains open to international collaboration, the goal is to achieve greater autonomy and resilience in uncertain geopolitical times. (interoperable-europe.ec.europa.eu)
The migration is planned in phases, with half of the Ministry's staff transitioning between June and August, and the remainder by November 2025. This phased approach aims to ensure a smooth transition, allowing time to address any technical challenges that may arise. (windowscentral.com)
Digital Sovereignty: A Growing European Priority
Denmark's initiative is part of a larger movement across Europe where governments are seeking to reclaim control over their digital infrastructures. The concept of digital sovereignty involves reducing reliance on a few dominant foreign tech companies and ensuring that national data and digital services are managed within the country's jurisdiction.
For instance, the German state of Schleswig-Holstein announced plans in April 2024 to migrate 30,000 PCs from Microsoft Windows and Office to Linux and LibreOffice. This decision was motivated by the desire to achieve digital sovereignty and reduce dependence on proprietary software vendors. (blog.documentfoundation.org)
Similarly, the French city of Toulouse migrated 90% of its desktops to LibreOffice between 2011 and 2014, resulting in significant cost savings and increased control over its IT infrastructure. (joinup.ec.europa.eu)
Challenges and Considerations
While the move to open-source software offers numerous benefits, including cost savings and enhanced control, it also presents challenges. Compatibility issues with existing systems, the need for staff training, and potential resistance to change are common hurdles. To mitigate these challenges, Denmark's Ministry of Digital Affairs has prepared a contingency plan, allowing it to revert to Microsoft products if technical difficulties arise during the transition. (windowscentral.com)
Moreover, the success of such migrations often depends on the availability of support and the maturity of the open-source solutions being adopted. In the case of Schleswig-Holstein, a three-tier support model was established, involving government-owned IT service providers and external companies specializing in open-source software, to ensure a smooth transition. (ostechnix.com)
Implications for the Future
Denmark's transition to LibreOffice is a significant step toward digital sovereignty and may serve as a model for other nations considering similar moves. By reducing dependence on proprietary software, governments can achieve greater control over their digital infrastructures, enhance security, and potentially realize cost savings.
However, the success of such initiatives requires careful planning, adequate support structures, and a commitment to addressing the challenges associated with large-scale software migrations. As more governments embark on this path, the experiences of early adopters like Denmark and Schleswig-Holstein will provide valuable insights into best practices and potential pitfalls.
In conclusion, Denmark's decision to replace Microsoft Office with LibreOffice reflects a growing trend among European governments to prioritize digital sovereignty. While the transition presents challenges, it also offers opportunities for greater control, security, and cost efficiency in public digital infrastructures.
Source: How-To Geek LibreOffice Is Replacing Microsoft 365 in Denmark's Government
