Independent platform promises full control over data within member states
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Amazon has introduced a new cloud service specifically designed for European Union member states. The platform, called the European Sovereign Cloud, operates independently from other Amazon Web Services (AWS) regions and is physically located in Brandenburg, Germany.
Crucially, the cloud is managed by a separate, EU-based company headed by EU citizens. This ensures that data remains entirely within the EU and that no infrastructure outside the EU is used. The service can even operate autonomously in the event of global communications outages.
Stéphane Israël leads this new cloud unit, supported by Stefan Hoechbauer as managing director and a five-member advisory board. Amazon stresses that the cloud includes robust security measures, sovereignty guarantees and legal safeguards to comply with the EU’s strict requirements for handling sensitive data.
The launch coincides with increasing scrutiny of major cloud providers in Europe. Regulators are tightening data privacy rules under the Digital Markets Act, reflecting growing concern among European users about access to data by foreign authorities. In contrast, the US Cloud Act requires US-based providers to grant access to data regardless of its physical location. As a result, European users are actively seeking alternatives to the predominantly US-based technology companies. Both Microsoft and Google, the other major US cloud providers, are also competing for customers who prioritise enhanced data security.
While AWS promotes its sovereign cloud, Amazon and Microsoft are currently under investigation by European regulators for possible violations of the Digital Markets Act.
This legislation aims to rein in the dominance of big tech companies. Amazon has pledged to make a substantial investment of €7.8 billion in the AWS European Sovereign Cloud by 2040. Further expansion plans include Belgium, the Netherlands and Portugal.
Business AM