The Centre for Democracy & Technology Europe (CDT Europe) has released its May 2025 Tech Policy Brief, addressing significant technology and internet policy issues currently debated in Europe. The brief provides insights into digital rights implications and includes several notable developments.
A key focus is the Pall Mall Process, a joint initiative by France and the United Kingdom to establish international principles for commercial cyber intrusion capabilities (CCICs). At a recent conference in Paris, Programme Director Silvia Lorenzo Perez participated as the process concluded with the adoption of a Pall Mall Code of Practice for States. "The Code has been endorsed by 25 countries to date, including 18 EU Member States," she noted.
CDT Europe is preparing an assessment of this document and will host the sixth edition of the civil society roundtable series, “Lifting the Veil – Advancing Spyware Regulation in the EU,” on May 13. This event aims to discuss meaningful actions within the EU following political commitments made by Member States endorsing the Pall Mall Code.
In another development, CDT Europe joined civil society organizations urging the Swedish Parliament to reject legislation that would weaken encryption. "This legislation...would greatly undermine the security and privacy of Swedish citizens," reads an open letter from CDT Europe and other groups.
On online expression, CDT Europe's Secretary General Asha Allen appeared on Euphoria Podcast to discuss challenges faced by civil society in Europe. She emphasized defending democracy and safeguarding fundamental rights amidst increasing politicization of key EU legislation like the AI Act and Digital Services Act.
The brief also highlights concerns over withdrawing the Artificial Intelligence Liability Directive (AILD), stressing that without it, proving damage caused by faulty AI systems would be difficult. Programme Director Laura Lazaro Cabrera expressed these concerns during discussions at a post-Paris AI Summit event hosted by The Nine.
Finally, CDT Europe welcomed Marcel Mir Teijeiro as their new AI Policy Fellow in April. His work will focus on implementing the AI Act and advocating for protections against AI-induced harms.
Upcoming events include "Tech Policy in 2025: Where Does Europe Stand?" on May 15, and participation in CPDP.ai's International Conference from May 21-23.