EU urged to centralize digital rule enforcement

The EU should create a dedicated Digital Enforcement Agency to close a widening gap between its digital ambitions and its ability to apply the rules, according to Kai Zenner, head of office of MEP Axel Voss, and Maria Koomen, an independent tech and democracy analyst.

Brussels has built a dense digital regulatory framework covering more than 171 laws and 315 regulatory bodies. Enforcement of the AI Act, Digital Services Act and Digital Markets Act is increasing, but responsibilities are divided across more than 300 different EU and national bodies, many of which lack the staff, expertise or independence needed for consistent action.

Zenner and Koomen also point to the European Commission’s dual role as lawmaker, enforcer and international negotiator as a source of political risk. They cite concerns that trade and security negotiations with foreign powers could influence enforcement decisions, especially in cases involving major technology companies.

The proposed path would begin with a short-lived cooperation forum, move to a Digital Enforcement Agency in the medium term and grant the body full independence after treaty reform. Koomen said the Commission’s coming review of digital legislation and talks on the next long-term EU budget create a rare opening, warning that the next chance may not come for seven years.