Global Practices in Sovereign Data Center Strategies

This white paper outlines global practices in sovereign data center strategies, focusing on strategic recommendations and lessons learned from Finland and other countries. It emphasizes the critical role of digital infrastructure as a national asset, essential for delivering secure citizen services and fostering economic growth. The document discusses Finland's digitalization journey, highlighting its regulatory framework, investments in infrastructure, and public-private partnerships that have led to significant advancements in digital services. Key elements of Finland's strategy include a focus on digital education, sustainable infrastructure development, and the transformation of public services. The paper also addresses the growing demand for data centers driven by factors such as artificial intelligence, data sovereignty, and cloud migration. It presents various global approaches to sovereign data centers, including full-state ownership and public-private partnerships, while examining the balance between security, innovation, and operational costs. The insights provided aim to assist other nations in developing their own sovereign data center strategies.