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The European Commission adopted a strong strategy on Web 4.0 and the metaverse on July 11. This initiative is designed to create a digital environment that is open, safe and inclusive, reflecting the principles of the EU:
Europe has thrown its hat into the ring to become a world leader in Web 4.0 and virtual worlds.
The new internet will affect the way people live together, bringing many benefits.
And we need to have people at the center and shape it according to our digital rights and EU principles. pic.twitter.com/rc0R3qUm0y
— European Commission (@EU_Commission) July 11, 2023
The strategy corresponds to the objectives of the Digital Decade Policy Program in 2030, which focuses on key areas such as skills, business, public services and infrastructure, aiming “for Web 4.0 and virtual worlds that reflect values and principles in the EU, where people’s rights are fully exercised and where European businesses can thrive.”
By the end of 2023, the Commission will promote guiding principles for virtual worlds and create a “Citizen toolbox” in Q1 2024. This toolbox aims to increase public awareness and develop a talent pool of virtual world specialists.
To increase the importance and address the divide within the digital realm, the Commission will support a European Web 4.0 industrial ecosystem. The Virtual Worlds Partnership under Horizon Europe will deal with the integration of all corners:
“To foster innovation, the Commission will also support EU creators and media companies to test new creative tools, bring together developers and industry users, and work with Member States to develop regulatory sandboxes for Web 4.0 and virtual worlds.”
In addition, social development and virtual public services are the main aspects of the strategy, using the benefits that virtual worlds can provide. The Commission also launched two flagship projects: “CitiVerse,” a virtual urban environment, and a European Virtual Human Twin, intended to help with clinical and personalized treatment decisions.
The last pillar of the strategy is focused on shaping global standards for open and interoperable virtual worlds and Web 4.0. The Commission aims to ensure a level playing field and prevent the dominance of a few key players.
Based on recommendations from the European Citizens’ Panel on Virtual Worlds and consultations with academia and business, the strategy aims to reflect the vision of Europeans. Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President for Europe Fit for the Digital Age at the European Commission, says:
“The Web 4.0 and virtual world will bring benefits for health, contribute to the green transition and better anticipate natural disasters. But we need to have people at the center and shape it according to our digital EU rights and principles, to address risks regarding privacy or disinformation.
