Dear Techonomists,
The past month has seen a surge of pivotal events that reshaped the digital policy landscape – from covert digital campaigns influencing elections to intensified investigations into tech platforms, technology's influence on society, policy, and the global economy is deeper than ever. As these challenges evolve, ANIS remains committed to driving tech innovation, supporting industry growth, and advocating for a safer, more resilient digital future.
?? In this #MonthlyDebrief we share insights on the latest digital policy updates, highlight our ongoing industry projects, and examine how these efforts shape the future of the tech ecosystem.
?? Digital and Tech Policy Updates That Matter
Recent global developments have reshaped the digital policy landscape:
?????Romanian Presidential Elections and Social Media
The annulment of Romania's presidential election results due to alleged Russian interference has raised concerns about the role of social media in electoral processes. Platforms like TikTok have been scrutinized for their role in disseminating election-related content, prompting discussions on the need for stricter content moderation and transparency.
????Cybersecurity Under the Spotlight
Romania's Supreme Council of National Defense (CSAT) has declassified documents revealing cyberattacks and financial support from Russian entities aimed at influencing the recent presidential election. These disclosures underscore the critical importance of robust cybersecurity measures and transparent electoral processes.
?? Global Scrutiny on TikTok
Privacy compliance takes center stage as TikTok faces mounting legal and regulatory challenges. A U.S. court ruling addressed concerns about its data handling practices, emphasizing stricter privacy compliance for tech companies. Simultaneously, the European Commission launched investigations into the platform's adherence to EU data privacy laws, signaling intensified regulatory oversight on a global scale.
???Meta's Report on Covert Influence Operations
Meta's recent report has uncovered and disrupted over 20 covert influence operations globally, including networks targeting Romanian voters. These findings highlight the ongoing challenges social media platforms face in combating misinformation and foreign interference.
These developments underscore the intricate relationship between technology, governance, and society.
“The intersection of technology and policy is where the future is shaped. We must be vigilant and proactive in building a resilient tech ecosystem.”— Edward Alexandru Cretescu , ANIS President
While global tech developments unfold, ANIS continues to drive innovation and policy advocacy through key projects and initiatives.
?? In the Spotlight @ANIS: The Tech Industry impact study: growth, grit, and goals for 2030
Despite adverse market trends and fiscal policies, the Romanian IT industry is a powerhouse. In 2023, it achieved a €15.6 billion turnover, up 12.16% from the previous year. While this growth has slowed from 32.99%, it mirrors broader challenges like inflation, energy costs, and a cooling global tech market. All of that on top of the sudden, pro-cyclical cut in the tax incentives. Still, our industry remains resilient, driven by 48,000 IT&C companies, mostly small, agile, and entrepreneurial.
Want to learn more? Find out how you can get a copy of the study at the end of this debrief!
??Innovation: Bright ideas, few launches
78.8% of companies that participated in our innovation survey reported having innovation initiatives over the last three years, but only 5.7% succeeded in launching their own products. The talent is there; we just need the support to turn these great ideas into global products.
??GDP impact: IT is an economic catalyst
Our industry contributed 7.99% to Romania’s GDP in 2021. Counting indirect & induced effects, the total impact reached 14.16%—a staggering €34 billion and generated over 880,000 jobs. Challenges like reduced tax incentives could make companies face profitability cuts up to 26.7%. ??Strategic fiscal policies are crucial for the industry to thrive and for innovation to grow.
领英推荐
??Innovation barriers: The elephant in the room
Innovation thrives on support to reach the next level – Romania becoming a regional tech and R&D hub. This was the focus of our debate at #BurseleANIS Gala where we discussed the investments & policy climate, public-private partnerships and solutions for fostering innovation and competitiveness. Check out the recording below ??
Yet, the industry study shows that we’re facing roadblocks like limited R&D tax incentives, a lack of innovation centers, and complex IP registration. In Digital Romania 2030 Manifesto we call for policy shifts to build a dynamic innovation ecosystem, improve digital infrastructure, and foster collaboration to position Romania as a tech leader.
??#BurseleANIS Gala 2024: And the Winners Are...
“Innovation in education is the foundation of a thriving tech ecosystem. Through Bursele ANIS, we celebrate and support educators who inspire the next generation of digital leaders.” – Corina Vasile , ANIS Executive Director
#BurseleANIS Gala, is a flagship project for us that celebrates university professionals using technology to foster learning and academic excellence regardless of their field of interest. Held at the Aula Magna of the Universitatea POLITEHNICA din Bucure?ti , it was an inspiring evening with engaging discussions on integrating tech in curricula and fostering digital skills.
This year, we awarded 15 grants of €5,000 to standout projects selected from 67 submissions, all showcasing how tech can transform education. Congratulations to our winners and to all participants, and a huge thank-you to our members and sponsors who made these awards possible!
You’re almost there! Did you know the industry study is available for free to all #ANISmembers? Not a member yet? Contact us at ??[email protected] to join. Otherwise, feel free to order your copy here. ??
As this month’s edition of #Techonomy wraps up, we remain committed to advancing tech innovation and policy in Romania. Join us on this journey—stay informed, get involved, and help shape the future.
Until next time, stay innovative,
The ANIS Team
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?? That's all for today, friends. We'll bring you more digital insights next month.
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