Technology sovereignty is about keeping control, not geography

Sovereignty depends on retaining operational command, oversight, and choice

by · TechRadar

Opinion By John Harms Published 15 September 2026

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter

The debate around technology sovereignty is becoming increasingly important. As governments accelerate their adoption of AI tools and modern digital infrastructure, attention is increasingly focused on where systems are hosted, where data is stored and where technology providers are based.

These are important considerations, but sovereignty ultimately comes down to a broader question: how much control does an organization retain over the technology it depends on?

John Harms

Vice President, Government Solutions at Quantexa.

For governments, that means having visibility into how systems operate, understanding how decisions are reached, maintaining oversight of data and retaining the flexibility to adapt as circumstances change.

Latest Videos FromTechRadarWatch full video here:

Technology sovereignty should therefore be measured through operational control, accountability and resilience. Geography forms part of that picture, but the ability to govern technology throughout its lifecycle is what creates lasting sovereignty.

Sovereignty is tested when circumstances change

The clearest measure of sovereignty is the level of control an organization retains when circumstances change.

Geopolitical developments, regulatory requirements, supplier changes, cyber incidents and technology failures can all place pressure on critical infrastructure. Strong technology foundations give governments the ability to respond, maintain essential services and continue making decisions with confidence.

This principle of control under distress should sit at the heart of the sovereignty debate.

Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!

Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors