January 9, 2026
Open-sauce drama, anyone?
European Commission issues call for evidence on open source
EU calls for open‑source input; commenters bring memes and politics
TLDR: The EU asked the public for input on building an open-source digital ecosystem to rely less on foreign software. Commenters split between cheering, joking that open source is “communism,” and warning about a state-branded OS, with optimism and skepticism duking it out.
The European Commission wants ideas to build a homegrown “Open Digital Ecosystem” and cut dependence on foreign software. Translation: Europe’s asking the internet how to go more DIY with tech. Cue the comments section turning into a reality show. One camp cheers the move — “right direction” vibes — while another drops a spicy grenade, arguing that people who rail against socialism secretly love open source because it’s all about sharing. Expect drama when politics meets code. Meanwhile, the pragmatists are here with a wishlist: they’ll send Brussels their demands, but they’re not betting the farm on it.
Then came the memes. One user asks if the EU will launch its own Linux like North Korea’s Red Star OS, setting off giggles and nervous side-eyes about government‑branded tech. Another points out the real hero of the day: the comments themselves, linking to a deeper explainer on LWN — “comments are subarticles” — because of course they are. Under the hood, the EU’s pitch is simple: open source (software you can freely use, change, and share) could make Europe’s digital systems more secure and resilient. The feedback window runs until Feb 3, 2026 (Brussels time), and the Commission wants voices from everyone — coders, companies, and curious citizens. The internet’s verdict so far? Hopeful, skeptical, and hilariously chaotic — just the way it likes it.
Key Points
- •The European Commission opened a call for evidence to inform the European Open Digital Ecosystem Strategy.
- •The initiative aims to reduce EU dependence on non‑EU software and improve digital infrastructure resilience.
- •The Commission highlights open‑source software as a public good and viable alternative to proprietary solutions.
- •Stakeholder feedback is sought from the open‑source community, public administrations, specialized sectors, ICT industry, academia, and research institutions.
- •The feedback period runs until midnight (Brussels time) on February 3, 2026.