Welcome to another VSHN.timer! Once again, here are 5 links related to Kubernetes, OpenShift, CI / CD, and DevOps; all stuff coming out of our own chat system, making us think, laugh, or simply work better.
As Europe becomes more aware of the risks tied to digital dependence, a movement is quietly growing – one that favours sovereignty over convenience. Whether it’s video platforms, calendars, or document storage, European technologists and governments are building homegrown alternatives to the usual Silicon Valley suspects. These tools aren’t just technically solid – they represent a vision for privacy, control, and digital self-determination. Let’s explore five examples where Europe says: thanks, but we’ll do it ourselves.
- Mobilizon: Taking back events from Meta
Mobilizon is a decentralised, open-source platform for managing events and communities – without selling your data to Facebook. Designed by Framasoft, a French non-profit, it puts individuals and grassroots groups in control of their online presence. It’s more than a tool – it’s a protest wrapped in calendar form.
https://mobilizon.org - Luzern vs. Microsoft: A canton says “maybe not”
The Swiss canton of Lucerne is debating whether Microsoft 365 belongs in public administration at all. Concerns over data sovereignty and compliance with Swiss and European privacy laws are driving the discussion. It’s a potent reminder that sovereignty starts with procurement decisions. (in German)
https://www.inside-it.ch/diskussionen-um-microsoft-365-im-kanton-luzern-20250616 - PeerTube: Europe’s YouTube alternative that you actually control
PeerTube offers a federated, open-source video hosting platform. Free of ads, algorithms, and corporate control, it lets anyone run their own “tube” while remaining connected to the wider fediverse. No recommendation rabbit holes – just people sharing video on their terms. As an example, you can access Heise’s Peertube instance here:
https://peertube.heise.de - Germany’s Schleswig-Holstein says Goodbye to Windows
The German state of Schleswig-Holstein is beginning to uninstall Microsoft Windows in favour of open-source Linux systems across its administration. Much like the cities of Copenhagen and Aarhus, who have made similar decisions, the state is signalling a bold move toward digital sovereignty at the public sector level. It’s not just a tech upgrade – it’s a political statement.
https://www.zdnet.com/article/the-german-state-schleswig-holstein-uninstalls-windows - Nextcloud: Europe’s homegrown Cloud grows up
Nextcloud has emerged as a full-featured, privacy-first cloud alternative, with tools for documents, collaboration, and app integration. The article explains how to extend its functionality using Docker and the AppAPI – ideal for companies wanting control without compromise. Forget GDrive. This cloud lives on your own turf. (in German)
https://www.computerweekly.com/de/tipp/Nextcloud-externe-Apps-mit-Docker-und-AppAPI-einrichten
These examples show us that Europe isn’t content with simply being a customer of Silicon Valley. By choosing open standards, federated platforms, and self-hosted tools, it’s shaping a new kind of digital independence – one that prioritises autonomy, not surveillance. Data sovereignty isn’t just a buzzword. It’s already happening – bit by bit, and byte by byte.
Have you ever chosen a European or open-source digital service over a mainstream alternative? What trade-offs would you accept for more digital sovereignty – convenience, features, or cost? Should governments be required to use services hosted within their own jurisdiction? Get in touch with us, and see you next week for another edition of VSHN.timer.
PS: check out our previous VSHN.timer editions about Open Source: #152, #170, #191, #194, #214, #234, #235, #256, #257
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