A study by the Fraunhofer Institute shows that the German federal administration can largely rely on its own open solutions instead of large foreign platforms. Through internal developments, the state avoids critical dependencies and maintains transparency, control, and the ability to act. Most large language models (LLMs) run on internal administrative infrastructure and can be replaced with manageable effort.
However, legal complexity, limited expertise, and a lack of AI-specific cloud resources are slowing down wider use. The study recommends expanding shared LLM infrastructures, strengthening open-source strategies, simplifying legal frameworks, and coordinating procurement. In addition, authorities should increasingly pool knowledge and train staff to ensure digital sovereignty in the long term.
