Digital autonomy and occupational safety trends emerge

Organizations are increasingly prioritizing digital autonomy as a strategic necessity to mitigate risks associated with technological dependencies. For years, companies favored ease of use and scalability, leading to deeply integrated ecosystems from providers like Microsoft and SAP. However, growing geopolitical tensions and the influence of domestic laws, such as the US CLOUD Act, have made the origin of technology a critical factor. The risks of dependency were highlighted by incidents such as the 2025 sanctions against the International Criminal Court, where Microsoft reportedly blocked access to the email account of Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan.

Simultaneously, in the Netherlands, shifting technological, ecological, and demographic landscapes are reshaping occupational health and safety. The Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment has introduced the Arbovisie 2040, a long-term vision aimed at ensuring workers remain healthy and safe both during and after their careers. This policy responds to new labor risks emerging from rapid technological advancements and evolving societal needs.