SECA API Opens Call to Build European Cloud Standard

In a decisive move towards strengthening Europe’s digital sovereignty, the Sovereign European Cloud API (SECA API) initiative has entered a crucial public consultation phase. The “Call for Comments,” now open until 15 September 2025, invites all cloud and infrastructure stakeholders to help shape an open, interoperable cloud standard for the continent.

Spearheaded by founding cloud providers Aruba, IONOS and Dynamo, the initiative positions SECA API as a core pillar of Europe’s cloud infrastructure strategy. It aims to deliver practical, standards-based interoperability, not just the illusion of sovereignty.

The initiative supports broader frameworks, such as EuroStack, Deutschland-Stack and IPCEI-CIS.

Open standards for a fragmented cloud landscape

Europe’s cloud ecosystem remains highly fragmented, often forcing providers to operate in silos and struggle with market visibility. SECA API directly addresses the challenge by creating a modular, open interface for cloud infrastructure.

The goal is to empower European providers to interoperate seamlessly while preserving their independence.

“SECA API is not a solo effort and it was never meant to be,” wrote Achim Weiß, CEO of IONOS, in a public letter. “Let’s stop trying to compete with hyperscalers on their terms and start leading on ours. If we don’t build it, someone else will – and it won’t be built on our terms.”

Stefano Cecconi, CEO of Aruba, added: “Now is the time to continue shaping the future of cloud and embracing solutions rooted in European values. By opening the SECA API to public consultation, we are inviting the entire industry to help co-create and drive a truly European cloud built on collaboration and shared principles.”

Phase two: Call for comments and RFC Framework

The second phase of SECA API development officially launches with a formal Request for Comments (RFC) process. European cloud providers, independent software vendors (ISVs), system integrators, developers and consultants are encouraged to participate.

A Pragmatic Approach to Sovereignty

SECA API has gained considerable attention across media and government circles for its role in countering extra-European influence in cloud infrastructure. Built on OpenAPI and compliant with European law, the interface enables:

• Seamless interoperability across cloud platforms.
• Modular deployments spanning control and data planes.
• Faster integration into existing cloud stacks.
• Clear separation of responsibilities, allowing regional customisation.

Francesco Bonfiglio, CEO of Dynamo, commented: “Europe’s weakness lies in fragmentation. Our providers have the skills, innovation and capacity — but lack customers. Without bridging this gap, we can’t meet the growing demand of the common market. SECA offers a pragmatic path to interoperability among suppliers, building trust and enabling seamless integration.”

He continued: “Dynamo supports SECA as it fosters a collaborative ecosystem where providers remain independent yet stronger together. We invite CSPs, ISVs, system integrators and end users to help shape SECA into a widely adopted industry standard.”

Laying the foundations for a Sovereign European Cloud

By prioritising shared development, open governance and regulatory alignment, SECA API aims to become Europe’s first home-grown cloud interface standard. The initiative not only enhances interoperability and independence but lays the groundwork for a truly sovereign digital infrastructure. All contributions are consensus-based, transparent and royalty-free.

European technology stakeholders now have a tangible opportunity to co-create a scalable, secure and future-ready cloud for Europe — by Europe.