Pact for the Mediterranean delivers as EU unveils first digital initiative for the region

As part of the ongoing strengthened engagement with the Southern Mediterranean partners, the European Commission has launched a digital transformation programme covering North Africa and the Middle East countries. It is the first deliverable in the digital domain under the Pact for the Mediterranean, launched at the end of 2025.

The programme, co-funded by the German government, will promote inclusive and sustainable growth by improving access to digital services for citizens, public administrations and businesses, by aligning digital regulation, strengthening cybersecurity and improving digital skills. It will help Southern Mediterranean governments improve digital regulations, strengthen legal frameworks, and enhance digital skills services for businesses and local SMEs.

The programme will focus on three key components to drive digital transformation in the region.

First, it will align digital telecommunications regulations with EU standards. The programme will also strengthen national regulators and establish a regional network to enhance cooperation.

Second, the programme will strengthen cybersecurity by improving national frameworks and governance, boosting the ability to prevent, respond to and manage cyber threats.

Finally, it will develop regional digital skills in line with the EU's DigComp standards and establish new platforms and networks to support continuous learning and the exchange of expertise.

Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, said "I warmly welcome this landmark programme under the Pact for the Mediterranean. It will be a key driver of inclusive growth - aligning digital rules, strengthening cybersecurity, and empowering citizens with the skills needed across North Africa and the Middle East."

The official launch took place yesterday in Marrakesh, Morocco, at the GITEX Africa conference in the presence of Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy.