The latest episode of ADAPT Radio examines the growing importance of digital sovereignty as Ireland prepares for its 2026 Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The discussion focuses on the increasing concentration of power among a small number of providers of foundational AI models and the risks this poses for national autonomy, digital infrastructure and long-term technological resilience. The episode explores how open-source AI systems can help address these challenges by promoting transparency, adaptability and greater control over digital technologies.
Joining the programme are Clare Dillon, founder of the Open Ireland Network and a PhD researcher at University of Galway’s Lero Research Centre, and Sarah Novotny, a prominent open-source advocate who has contributed to major projects including Kubernetes and OpenTelemetry.
The conversation highlights the role of open-source technologies in reducing dependence on external providers, strengthening digital agency and supporting collaborative approaches to the development of future AI systems. It also emphasises the importance of investing in software maintenance and fostering trust through transparency in code and development practices.
ADAPT Radio is available on SoundCloud, iTunes, and Spotify.
