Besieging Google, EU builds "its own Open search engine" with 8.5 million euros

CTOnews.com, September 25 (Xinhua)-- 14 research and computer centers in seven EU countries have announced the launch of the Open Web search Project (OpenWebSearch) to build Europe's future web search engine. The project has received 8.5 million euros (about 58.905 million yuan) in funding from the EU's Horizon research and innovation program.

According to reports, the project aims to help people have free, open and fair access to information and create an open European Internet search infrastructure based on European values and jurisdiction.

CTOnews.com learned that according to the project's website, web search is still dominated by some large technology companies. As a result, free, fair and transparent access to information as public goods is no longer under the control of the public.

Over the next three years, researchers will develop the core of the European Open Web Index (OWI) as the basis for new Internet search in Europe. In addition, the project will lay the foundation for an open and scalable European Open Web search and Analysis Infrastructure (OWSAI) based on European values, principles, legislation and standards.

The envisaged infrastructure will not only restore the open people-centred search engine market, but also contribute to Europe's independence in web navigation and search. It will also enable European researchers, innovators and companies to systematically use the Internet as a business and innovation resource.