Hyperconnected horizons: decoding the digital sovereignty of european smart cities

Abstract

This article explores the intersection of governance policies and technological advancements in the context of smart cities, engaging with the entwined concepts of smart cities and digital sovereignty within the European landscape. Employing a poststructuralist lens, it critically examines the ramifications of stringent regulations on the incorporation of innovative technologies in smart cities. The analysis navigates divergent national perspectives, emphasizing the tension between digital sovereignty and an open-market ethos. Through nuanced exploration and case studies, the article seeks to unravel the complexities inherent in reconciling these paradigms, offering insights for policymakers, urban planners, and technology stakeholders navigating the intricate terrain of Smart City development amid Europe's pursuit of digital sovereignty. This succinct exploration contributes to academic discourse by fostering a critical dialogue around the intersectionality of technological innovation, governance, and urban development within the contemporary European context.