The different types of sovereignty in IT: What does it mean for your organization?
Sovereignty has become an important consideration for organizations striving for control, security, and autonomy. However, sovereignty in the context of IT can mean different things depending on organizational priorities and the geopolitical environment. In this blog, we discuss the key forms of IT sovereignty: data sovereignty, technological sovereignty, and operational sovereignty, and how they align with organizational goals.
What is sovereignty in IT?
At its core, sovereignty in IT refers to having control over your organization’s technological assets, data, and operations. However, sovereignty isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. For some, it means ensuring data never leaves the national borders, for others, it’s about owning the infrastructure or managing operations in-house.
With increasing global uncertainties and geopolitical challenges, understanding and defining sovereignty for your organization has never been more important.
Data sovereignty: Where your data lives and who controls it
Definition
Data sovereignty refers to the ownership and governance of data in compliance with the laws of the country in which it is stored or processed.
Key considerations
Why it matters
Data sovereignty is essential for protecting sensitive information and maintaining customer trust. It is particularly critical in industries that handle personal data, such as healthcare and finance. However, its importance is increasingly extending to other industries as well.
A striking example of the impact of data sovereignty is the bankruptcy of ATB, which occurred when Microsoft and Amazon Web Services (AWS) abruptly restricted cloud access for their client. This action was taken in response to U.S. sanctions targeting companies with Russian (co-)owners. Several IT systems were shut down as a result. Although the curators argued that Microsoft had until May 6th to comply with the sanctions and close ATB, the company chose to terminate its services almost immediately. This left ATB unable to operate, as other providers also ceased their licensing agreements. Despite being financially stable, the bank declared bankruptcy on April 22nd. The curators were further hindered by the inability to access critical data, such as email records, complicating the bankruptcy settlement process.
Technological sovereignty: Controlling the tools you use
Definition
Technological sovereignty refers to an organization’s ability to control the tools and platforms it relies on, ensuring independence from external vendors or foreign technologies.
Key considerations
Why it matters
Technological sovereignty reduces vulnerabilities to foreign influence or disruptions in the supply chain. It also supports innovation and long-term cost management.
Operational sovereignty: Autonomy in running your IT operations
Definition
Operational sovereignty is about having full control over how IT systems are managed, including who is responsible for support, maintenance, and ongoing operations.
Key considerations
Why it matters
Operational sovereignty ensures resilience and adaptability. With global tensions rising, organizations want assurance that they can maintain operations independently, even during international crises.
Why sovereignty matters in today’s geopolitical climate
The current geopolitical environment has amplified the importance of sovereignty in IT. From data breaches and cybersecurity threats to economic sanctions, organizations must navigate a complex world where control and compliance are paramount.
For instance:
Finding your balance: What does sovereignty mean for your organization?
Sovereignty is not a fixed standard, it varies depending on your organization’s goals and context. Here are a few questions to help define your sovereignty priorities:
1. Where does your data reside?
Where should your data reside?
Should it stay within your country’s borders, or are you comfortable with regional cloud solutions?
2. How much control do you want over your technology stack?
Are open source or localized solutions feasible for your needs?
3. Who will manage your IT operations?
Will you build internal expertise or rely on external partners?
Conclusion: Sovereignty as a strategic imperative
Whether it’s data sovereignty, technological sovereignty, or operational sovereignty, defining and achieving sovereignty is critical for modern organizations. It’s not just about compliance or control, it’s about aligning IT strategy with broader business and geopolitical goals.
By understanding these forms of sovereignty and assessing your organization’s needs, you can build a resilient, secure, and future-proof IT foundation.
Ready to take the first step toward sovereignty in IT? Contact us today to learn how we can help you define and implement your sovereignty strategy.
