At the 2026 International Cybersecurity Forum, Anssi emphasized the urgent need to reduce France's digital dependence. Balancing security and sovereignty, the agency calls for an ambitious national strategy.
A Major Event for Cybersecurity
Every year, the International Cybersecurity Forum (FIC) brings together a wide range of digital sector stakeholders: providers, partners, information system security managers (RSSI), information system directors (DSI), and cybersecurity experts. In 2026, around 7,000 participants gathered at the Lille Convention Center to discuss current and future digital security challenges.
A Strong Call from Anssi to Reduce Digital Dependence
The National Cybersecurity Agency of France (Anssi) used this platform to reaffirm its position on the need to strengthen French digital sovereignty. Anssi warns of the risks linked to excessive dependence on foreign technologies, often originating from regions considered geopolitically sensitive.
According to Anssi, this dependence exposes France to major vulnerabilities, both in critical infrastructures and strategic companies. It thus advocates a clear strategy to promote the development and adoption of national or European solutions to limit risks of interference or supply disruption.
The Stakes of Digital Sovereignty
Digital sovereignty is now a priority on the public authorities' agenda. It encompasses several dimensions:
- Control of infrastructures: ensuring that the country's key infrastructures are under national or European control to avoid any external dependence.
- Development of local technologies: encouraging innovation and the production of digital solutions designed in France or Europe.
- Data security: protecting sensitive information against risks of espionage or cyberattacks.
- System resilience: ensuring continuity of essential services in times of crisis.
Concrete Initiatives Under Consideration
To address these challenges, Anssi and its partners are considering several courses of action:
- Strengthening industrial sectors: supporting French cybersecurity companies to build a robust ecosystem.
- Promoting certification and standardization: implementing strict standards to guarantee the reliability of products and services used.
- Supporting training and research: developing skills and encouraging technological innovation.
- Increasing awareness: informing public and private actors about risks related to digital dependence.
An Essential Public-Private Partnership
The success of this ambition relies on close collaboration between public authorities, companies, and research institutions. The FIC also highlighted the importance of dialogue among these actors to build a coherent and effective strategy.
Feedback and exchanges during the forum emphasized that cybersecurity cannot be addressed in isolation. Digital dependence is a systemic issue requiring a comprehensive approach integrating technical, economic, and political aspects.
Conclusion: A Challenge for France's Digital Future
As digital technology becomes central to all sectors of the economy and society, the issue of digital sovereignty becomes a strategic challenge. Anssi's message at FIC 2026 is clear: to protect its interests and infrastructures, France must reduce its dependence on foreign technologies and strengthen its national capabilities.
Implementing this policy will require time, investment, and collective mobilization. However, it represents an essential step to guarantee the country's security and resilience against growing cyber threats.
