The United States is reaping its benefits from decades of maintaining global dominance, but for its allies, life has become increasingly difficult. The term “enshittification” was coined by author Cory Doctorow to describe a cycle that has played out in the online economy, where platform owners start squeezing their users and vendors for everything they can get.
This phenomenon is now being felt across various domains, from military hardware to satellite constellations and financial systems. The US dollar clearing system, administered by US-regulated institutions, has become an expedient way for global banks to conduct transactions. However, this system also poses a significant risk to foreign banks that don’t implement US financial sanctions.
The situation is further complicated by the Trump administration’s actions, which have weaponized these platforms against its targets. The recent imposition of sanctions on the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court and the threat to withdraw Starlink access from Ukraine unless it handed over rights to exploit its mineral reserves are prime examples.
In response, some world leaders have started talking about breaking up with the United States. Germany’s Friedrich Merz has declared that his country’s priority as chancellor would be to “achieve independence” from the US, while French President Emmanuel Macron echoed a similar sentiment in a national address.
The concept of EuroStack, an EU-led digital supply chain initiative, aims to give Europe technological sovereignty independent from the US and other countries. The idea has gained significant traction, with major European aircraft manufacturers and military suppliers signing on to advocate for sovereign digital infrastructure.
This development is not limited to Europe; Denmark and Canada are also directly at risk from enshittification due to their close integration with US structures. The Danish government adviser notes that the “transatlantic idea” has been the cornerstone of everything they do, making it challenging to disentangle themselves from US systems.
The situation raises concerns about the future of democracies and national security in Europe. As Robin Berjon, a French computer scientist, pointed out, EuroStack is more a social movement than anything else, yet it may be the only way for Europe to regain control over its digital infrastructure.
In conclusion, the enshittification of American power has far-reaching implications for US allies and citizens alike. While some have the means and resources to build alternative platforms, others are left vulnerable to coercion. As the concept of EuroStack gains momentum, it remains to be seen whether Europe will succeed in regaining control over its digital infrastructure, or if the US will continue to exert its dominance over the global platform economy.
Note: The article has been simplified while retaining essential information and key points.
Source: https://www.wired.com/story/enshittification-of-american-power