Danish government removes Microsoft software and transfers government agencies to open source software

The Danish government has initiated the transition of government agencies to open source software as part of Microsoft's strategy of abandoning enterprise solutions. The start of the phased introduction of alternative digital platforms in mid-June 2025 was announced by Minister of Digital Affairs Caroline Stage Olsen. The authorities explain the decision by the desire to reduce dependence on foreign IT companies, strengthen control over infrastructure and ensure a more sustainable digital policy.

According to The Record.Media, the Danish Agency for Digital Government plans to replace Windows and Office 365 with the Linux operating system and the LibreOffice office suite. The transition will affect half of the ministry's employees already in the summer months, and the complete abandonment of Microsoft products is planned to be completed by the fall of 2025.

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Фото: Freepik

The decision was made as part of Denmark's new digital sovereignty strategy. Minister Caroline Stage Olsen noted that the initiative is aimed at reducing dependence on a limited number of software providers. According to her, the ministry will not come close to its goal if it does not take action.

Olsen stressed that this is not only about Microsoft, but about reducing the excessive dependence of government agencies on foreign technology companies. The minister clarified that the team's reaction to the proposed changes was positive.

In the event of difficulties with the new system, the ministry is ready to temporarily return to the previous Microsoft configuration, while alternative solutions are being studied. Olsen said the department can instantly restore use of Microsoft products if necessary.

The Danish government is not the first in Europe to take such measures. Earlier, similar decisions were announced by the largest cities in the country - Copenhagen and Aarhus. The chairman of the Copenhagen Audit Committee, Henrik Appel Espersen, noted the risks of political consequences from the dependence of American technologies. Not being able to send emails or internal communications because of political differences poses a major challenge, he said.^[1]

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