The German state of Schleswig-Holstein plans to drop Microsoft software for free and open-source alternatives running on Linux, aiming to save €15 million in 2026. This move seeks digital sovereignty and reduced reliance on tech giants. The change will affect tens of thousands of public servants, including teachers and police.
Schleswig-Holstein, the northernmost state among Germany's 16 federal states, is set to replace Microsoft products with free and open-source software (FOSS) on Linux operating systems. According to Dirk Schrödter, Head of the State Chancellery and Minister for Digital Transformation, the switch will yield savings of €15 million in 2026, equivalent to about US$17.66 million at current rates.
The initiative focuses on regaining control over data and cutting licensing fees from tech giants like Microsoft. Specific replacements include swapping the Microsoft Office suite—Word, Excel, and Outlook—for LibreOffice, and Microsoft Teams for Open-Xchange or Thunderbird. Linux will serve as the underlying operating system. This transition builds on precedents, such as France's Gendarmerie Nationale, which began migrating to Linux in the early 2000s.
The policy addresses concerns over Microsoft's data practices, particularly in standard Windows 11 and Outlook, positioning Schleswig-Holstein to avoid what officials describe as growing espionage risks. Implementation will impact tens of thousands of public employees, from educators to law enforcement, promoting broader digital independence.
While the full rollout details remain forthcoming, the decision underscores a push for cost-effective, sovereign technology solutions in public administration.
