Germany's Schleswig-Holstein State Makes Historic Switch to Open-Source Software

Berlin, Germany - In a significant move towards digital sovereignty and cost efficiency, the German state of Schleswig-Holstein has initiated a large-scale transition from proprietary software to open-source alternatives.

By transitioning 25,000 government workplaces from proprietary platforms to open-source solutions like Linux and LibreOffice, the state aims to reduce dependence on major tech corporations and foster greater control over its IT infrastructure.

This move not only promises significant savings on licensing fees but also aligns with broader European goals for transparency, security, and technological self-reliance.

Key Highlights:

• Approximately 30,000 government computers will be migrated from Microsoft Windows and Office to Linux and LibreOffice.
• The switch aims to achieve greater control over IT infrastructure, reduce dependency on proprietary vendors, and promote digital sovereignty.
• Cost efficiency is a significant factor, with substantial savings anticipated on licensing fees.

"A New Era for Digital Sovereignty in Germany"

The move by Schleswig-Holstein serves as a significant endorsement of open-source solutions, potentially inspiring other regions and organizations to consider similar transitions.

By adopting open-source platforms, the state aims to:

1. Enhance security by allowing for thorough code examination and the identification of vulnerabilities.
2. Foster a more collaborative and transparent technological environment.

This historic shift towards open-source software highlights the viability of these solutions in large-scale governmental operations and promotes a broader adoption.

Top Open Source Projects Originated from Germany

Open source has gained a lot of popularity in Germany over the years. The open-source software development model has been widely accepted in the country, and many organizations have adopted it. The German government has also shown a great interest in open source. In 2019, the German Federal Ministry of

MEDevel.com: Open-source for Healthcare, and EducationHazem Abbas

A New Standard for Digital Sovereignty

The decision by Schleswig-Holstein marks a significant milestone in the adoption of open-source software in Germany.

"It's a game-changer for our organization and sets a new standard for digital sovereignty. We're excited to lead the way in adopting open-source solutions and inspiring others to follow our example."

Schleswig-Holstein’s commitment to open standards and community-driven development highlights the potential of open-source innovation in public administration, serving as a model for other regions to rethink their reliance on proprietary systems. This initiative underscores the transformative impact open-source software can have, both as a cost-effective alternative and a tool for empowering public institutions.

Resources

1. Schleswig-Holstein drives forward the widespread use of open source
2. The Big Open Source Vision at Schleswig-Holstein
3. German state moving 30,000 PCs to LibreOffice (Schleswig-Holstein)