Frankfurt | Jan 15 — GeokHub Amazon Web Services (AWS) has unveiled a new cloud service based entirely in Europe, aiming to address growing concerns about data security and the legal reach of U.S.-based tech providers.
The AWS European Sovereign Cloud will operate from data centers that are physically and legally separate from Amazon’s global network, ensuring that European users’ data is managed under local jurisdiction.
Data Security and Sovereignty at the Forefront
Michael Hanisch, AWS Germany’s Chief Technology Officer, said the new service is designed to continue functioning even if the European Union is disconnected from the global internet or if U.S. authorities restrict software exports.
The move comes amid increased European scrutiny of foreign cloud providers. U.S. laws such as the Cloud Act can compel American companies to provide authorities access to user data stored abroad, prompting governments and businesses to seek local alternatives.
Investing in European Infrastructure
AWS has begun construction of its first European data center in Brandenburg, Germany, with plans for additional facilities in Germany and other EU countries. The investment is expected to exceed 7.8 billion euros ($8.1 billion).
The cloud service will include enhanced legal safeguards and operational controls, ensuring compliance with European regulations for sensitive data. A German-managed company will operate and monitor the service, and all employees will eventually be required to hold EU citizenship, strengthening user trust in data sovereignty.
European Cloud Market Competition
AWS joins Microsoft and Google in competing for European customers demanding strong data protection. Microsoft already allows European clients to store data exclusively within the EU, while Google invested 5.5 billion euros in German data centers last year to expand local capacity.
While AWS has not disclosed specific customer targets for the European cloud, the launch signals the company’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for regional data sovereignty and compliance in Europe.
