SUSE has unveiled a new support package aimed at customers concerned about data sovereignty. The service, called ‘SUSE Sovereign Premium Support,’ geo-pins support to a given region rather than adopting the traditional follow-the-sun model, where support comes from whatever region is online. This approach is designed to prevent data transfers that could potentially violate sovereignty regulations or policies. The latter approach could break sovereignty regulations or policies, as it might involve transferring data out of a region. Ensuring that support is available from a specific region is therefore crucial, particularly for European customers.
SUSE CEO Dirk-Peter van Leeuwen stated in a recent interview with The Register that digital sovereignty has become a highly relevant topic in the last half year, especially in Europe. He highlighted that European companies are increasingly seeking to manage their operations in-house, within their own country, or in the region, with less dependency on non-European vendors and supply chains. This shift underscores a broader trend in data governance and regulatory compliance across the European Union.
The introduction of this new support model reflects a growing awareness of the importance of data localization and regional control in an era of increasing digital regulation. As companies like SUSE adapt to these demands, they are also navigating complex legal frameworks that aim to protect national interests and data security. The launch of ‘SUSE Sovereign Premium Support’ is a direct response to these evolving regulatory landscapes and customer needs, positioning the company as a key player in the data sovereignty market.