Canadian tech critic Paris Marx argues that Canada must pursue true digital sovereignty to escape its deep dependence on U.S. tech giants. The piece, written for the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, contends that this reliance undermines national decision-making and funnels economic benefits south. It draws parallels to Europe's recent vulnerability after U.S. tech firms complied with sanctions against the International Criminal Court.

The article highlights how U.S. political pressure, particularly under the Trump administration, directly influences Canadian tech policy. Executives from companies like Meta and Apple lobby against regulations, and their domestic allies echo these narratives. This pressure has led to the erosion of key initiatives, including stalled AI regulations and the repeal of a digital services tax to appease U.S. trade demands.

Marx warns that Canada's proximity to the U.S. makes its vulnerability even more acute than Europe's. The piece calls for bold action to reclaim control over digital infrastructure and governance. The core question is whether Canada will prioritize national sovereignty or continue to allow its tech policy to be shaped by foreign corporate and political interests.