The Guild asks to prioritise research interests in the EU's Data Union Strategy

The Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities has asked policymakers to prioritise research interests in the EU's plans for a Data Union.

In a report published on 12/03/2026, the Guild says: "A future-proof data framework must recognise that universities and public research bodies play a vital role as both users and providers. Their needs should be acknowledged to foster a sense of value and inclusion in legislative alignment efforts in the Digital Omnibus, the upcoming European Research Area (ERA) Act and related initiatives."

The Guild was reacting to the European Commission's Data Union Strategy, published on 19/11/2025, which aims to streamline existing data rules.

The Guild's position says that the strategy should:
• scale up access to quality data for AI and innovation;
• streamline data rules;
• and safeguard the EU’s data sovereignty through a strategic international data policy.

As the strategy seeks to map databases, set priorities with expert input and fund new digital infrastructure, The Guild is requesting clearer criteria and procedures for selecting experts, and…