Denmark Moves Toward Linux and LibreOffice to Strengthen Digital Sovereignty
Denmark is launching a bold initiative to minimize its dependence on proprietary software from foreign tech companies, particularly Microsoft. The country’s government plans to phase out Windows and Office 365 across its systems, shifting instead to Linux-based operating systems and LibreOffice for productivity needs.
This transition, led by the Danish Ministry of Digitalization, reflects growing concerns about digital sovereignty and the strategic risks of relying on technology provided by companies headquartered abroad — especially in the United States.
By adopting open-source alternatives, Denmark aims to enhance control over its digital infrastructure, reduce licensing costs, and protect sensitive data from external influence.
Open-Source Software: Denmark’s Strategy for Digital Independence
Danish authorities are turning to open-source solutions as a key part of their plan to strengthen national digital sovereignty. Officials highlight LibreOffice, a widely adopted open-source office suite, as the most suitable replacement for Microsoft Office to meet the country’s productivity needs.
By embracing open-source tools, the Danish Ministry of Digitalization aims to achieve:
→ Greater control over software updates and security
→ Enhanced oversight of data storage
→ Freedom from vendor lock-in, ensuring long-term flexibility
While cost savings from reduced licensing fees are expected, officials stress that this move is not just about cutting costs.
According to Minister Caroline Stage, the true goal is strategic — to protect Denmark’s digital infrastructure from the risks associated with geopolitical tensions and potential disruptions to services hosted by U.S.-based tech providers.
Denmark’s Shift to Open-Source Mirrors Europe’s Push for Digital Independence
Denmark’s decision to transition from Microsoft software to Linux and LibreOffice reflects a growing trend across Europe, where governments are increasingly cautious about the long-term risks of relying on foreign tech giants.
This bold move isn’t entirely new. Over a decade ago, Germany’s city of Munich launched a similar effort to replace Microsoft products with open-source alternatives. Despite initial optimism, the project was eventually rolled back due to:
→ Compatibility challenges with Microsoft Office documents
→ User frustration and resistance to the new tools
→ Declines in productivity tied to the learning curve and technical hurdles
These setbacks have led many to wonder whether Denmark’s open-source transition will play out differently.
A More Cautious, Flexible Approach
Unlike Munich’s earlier effort, Denmark appears to be taking a pragmatic and gradual path. The Danish Ministry of Digitalization has confirmed that:
→ The migration will occur in phases, ensuring time for testing and adjustment
→ If serious disruptions threaten operations, the government is ready to temporarily revert to Microsoft tools to maintain continuity
This balanced strategy demonstrates Denmark’s commitment to operational stability while working toward greater digital sovereignty.
Challenges on the Horizon
While LibreOffice is often praised as the top open-source alternative to Microsoft Word, real-world use in government settings presents challenges.
→ Document compatibility with Microsoft Office formats may cause friction
→ Adapting to a new interface could slow productivity during the transition
Similarly, while Linux is known for its security and flexibility, success will depend heavily on the chosen distribution’s stability and support ecosystem.
A Strategic Move Beyond Software
At its core, Denmark’s initiative is not just about swapping out software — it’s about who controls the digital keys to government infrastructure. This transition raises important questions about:
→ National resilience in the face of geopolitical tensions
→ The future of digital independence in Europe
→ How governments can balance control, security, and operational needs
Whether Denmark can succeed where others have struggled remains to be seen — but what’s clear is that this move represents a strategic shift in how nations think about technology and sovereignty.
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