International Criminal Court Adopts German Technology: Symbolic Step Toward Digital Sovereignty

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Author: Josefine Fokuhl, Christof Kerkmann | Source: Handelsblatt | Publication Date: 30.10.2025 | Reading Time: 3 minutes

Executive Summary

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is replacing its Microsoft system with the German open-source solution Open Desk from the state-run Center for Digital Sovereignty (Zendis) due to concerns about US sanctions under Trump. This decision has received cross-party political support as an important signal for digital sovereignty and technological independence. Despite its small scope (1,800 workstations), the switch has great symbolic power and could serve as a model for German administrations.

Critical Key Questions

  • How strongly will geopolitical tensions shape the technology landscape in the coming years and which other international institutions could take similar steps?

  • Can Germany with Zendis and only 35 employees actually develop competitive alternatives to established US tech giants and scale them?

  • What strategic advantages emerge for German companies if the trend toward digital sovereignty spreads internationally?

Core Theme & Context

The ICC is switching from Microsoft to a German digital solution to protect itself from potential US sanctions. This illustrates how technology is increasingly being used as a geopolitical tool of pressure and forcing international institutions to diversify their IT infrastructure.

Most Important Facts & Figures

  • 1,800 workstations at the ICC are switching to the German Open Desk solution
  • Zendis is a German state institution with only 35 employees
  • Open-source model as an alternative to proprietary US solutions
  • US sanctions against ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan as the trigger
  • Cross-party support from CDU, SPD and Greens
  • Additional punitive measures by the US against the entire institution are being considered

Stakeholders & Affected Parties

Directly affected: International Criminal Court, Zendis, Microsoft Indirectly affected: German administrations, European institutions, open-source community Industries: IT service providers, public administration, international organizations

Opportunities & Risks

Opportunities:

  • Signal effect for German authorities and international institutions
  • Strengthening German tech sovereignty in global competition
  • Promotion of open-source solutions as an alternative to US monopolies

Risks:

  • Limited resources of Zendis could complicate scaling
  • Technological backwardness compared to established providers
  • Dependence on political support and budget financing

Scenario Analysis: Future Perspectives

Short-term (1 year)

Successful migration of the ICC could encourage other international organizations. German authorities could start pilot projects with Open Desk. Political pressure for more open-source investments increases.

Medium-term (5 years)

Consolidation in the European digital market with German and French alternatives to US tech. Zendis could establish itself as a serious alternative. New business models around sovereign cloud solutions emerge.

Long-term (10-20 years)

Bipolar tech world with European and American systems. Digital sovereignty becomes standard in government contracts. Structural market shift away from US tech dominance in sensitive areas.

Action Relevance

Immediately: Companies should evaluate dependencies on US tech Short-term: Develop open-source strategies and examine Zendis offerings Medium-term: Integrate digital sovereignty into procurement processes

References

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Verification Status: ✅ Facts verified on 30.10.2025

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