Germany's Schleswig-Holstein state embarks on a significant transition, opting to migrate from Windows to Linux and from Microsoft Office to LibreOffice on government PCs. The decision, spearheaded by Minister-President Daniel Gunther, underscores a strategic shift towards open-source software to bolster independence, sustainability, and security.
Germany's Schleswig-Holstein state embarks on a significant transition, opting to migrate from Windows to Linux and from Microsoft Office to LibreOffice on government PCs. The decision, spearheaded by Minister-President Daniel Gunther, underscores a strategic shift towards open-source software to bolster independence, sustainability, and security.
Officials emphasize the benefits of open-source software, citing enhanced IT security, cost-effectiveness, and data protection, alongside seamless collaboration across systems. Embracing open-source development, the state aims to share future development outcomes under free licenses, fostering innovation and collaboration.
With 30,000 employees transitioning to Linux and LibreOffice, Schleswig-Holstein prioritizes 'digital sovereignty,' aimed at safeguarding user data from non-EU entities and nurturing a competitive landscape for European firms. The move receives applause from LibreOffice developer The Document Foundation, highlighting the intrinsic value of digital sovereignty and the transparency afforded by open-source software.
Question! Why should local governments use taxpayers’ money to buy proprietary software from a single vendor? And what happens to citizens' data? A solution is to move to free software like Linux and LibreOffice – which is what Schleswig-Holstein is doing: https://t.co/P7cQJwEP7u pic.twitter.com/OuIHPlSteV
— LibreOffice (@LibreOffice) April 4, 2024
The transition extends beyond operating systems and office suites, encompassing email servers, directory, and telephony software, which will adopt open-source solutions like Nextcloud, Open Xchange/Thunderbird, and Univention Active Directory (AD). Addressing concerns over proprietary software limitations, the state asserts the need for full control and transparency in operational processes and data handling.
Schleswig-Holstein's decision aligns with broader shifts towards open-source alternatives, influenced by recent regulatory scrutiny and data protection considerations. Reflecting on past experiences, including Munich's migration to Linux-based LiMux, the move signals growing momentum towards open-source adoption among government agencies in Europe and beyond.
In parallel, recent developments in China underscore global trends towards reducing reliance on proprietary software, emphasizing the growing importance of open-source solutions in ensuring digital sovereignty and security. Amidst these transitions, vigilance remains essential, as evidenced by recent discoveries of potential security vulnerabilities in open-source systems.
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