
Europe Wants to Lead in AI by 2028, Says ECB Leader

AI leadership will be led by Europe in 2028? François Villeroy de Galhau, a top official from the European Central Bank (ECB), has issued a strong message urging the European Union to become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) by the year 2028. He delivered this message at the Young Factor conference in Milan, where he proposed creating a European “AI Community.” This new group would help countries across the EU share money, ideas, and new technologies to work better as a team.
Villeroy warned that if Europe doesn’t act soon, it may fall even further behind countries like the United States and China. These two countries are already leading the way in AI research and development, and Europe risks missing out on big opportunities if it delays.
For years, the European Union (EU) has wanted to build a strong digital economy that connects all of its member countries. However, progress has been slow because of differences in rules, technology, and financial systems. Right now, countries like the U.S. and China are moving fast with their AI investments and strategies, putting Europe at risk of being left behind.
Villeroy supports recent proposals by two former Italian prime ministers, Mario Draghi and Enrico Letta. They both believe that Europe can do much more if it works together more closely, especially without having to spend a lot of extra public money. These ideas include new ways to share resources and create stronger connections between EU countries.
This proposal comes at a time when the EU is also working on other big tech plans, such as creating a digital version of the euro. Villeroy hopes that this sense of urgency can also apply to building a better future in AI.
AI Leadership Key Proposals & Details

- ✨ 2028 AI Leadership Deadline: Set a clear, official goal for the EU to become self-sufficient and a world leader in AI by 2028.
- 💰 Pooling Capital: Start a new fund that gathers money from all EU countries. This fund would support AI projects and keep more investments inside Europe instead of going to other countries.
- 👥 AI Leadership Community: Build a strong group that includes governments, tech companies, and universities working together to lead Europe’s AI progress.
- ⚖️ Low Cost: Most of these ideas can be done without raising taxes or spending a lot more public money.
- 🌍 Global Competition: The plan aims to help Europe keep up with and even pass tech giants like the United States and China.
AI Leadership Analysis & Impact
If the EU follows through with this plan, it could change the way Europe competes in the global AI race. Having one big, united strategy could attract more investors, keep smart and talented workers from leaving, and boost technology made in Europe. It would also help the EU make its own fair rules for how AI should be used, rather than relying on systems created elsewhere.
A stronger AI network could help with many things, like improving healthcare, transportation, climate science, and even education. Local companies could use European-made AI to solve real problems, making life better for people all across the continent.
AI Leadership Case Study: The Digital Euro
One similar project is the EU’s plan for a digital euro. This digital currency, expected to launch by 2026, also needs countries to work closely together. The idea is to build public trust in new technologies while making sure everyone follows the same rules. If the EU can apply these lessons to AI, it could be a big success.
Villeroy’s message is urgent and clear: Europe must act quickly if it wants to become a leader in artificial intelligence. Setting a target date of 2028 gives the EU something to aim for, and working together could help every country benefit from this fast-growing technology.
So what do you think about AI Leadership? Should the EU have its own powerful AI group? How can Europe best use its talents and resources to build a smarter future? Share your ideas and don’t forget to follow AI Brief Now for the latest updates on how AI is changing our world.