Copenhagen faces a significant expense, estimated at 180 million kroner, to replace Chinese technology currently in use across various municipal departments, according to a new report. The municipality’s inventory includes drones, video conferencing consoles, surveillance and traffic cameras, computers, and routers.
The report, initiated following a proposal from the Conservative People’s Party, sought to assess the extent of Chinese hardware and software in critical municipal installations and explore options for expedited replacement. The party specifically requested an overview of the municipality’s reliance on Chinese technology within essential systems.
While an immediate replacement would incur substantial costs, the municipality suggests a gradual phasing out of the Chinese equipment as it becomes obsolete. The municipality believes that the current Chinese equipment does not pose immediate IT security concerns because it adheres to best practices and complies with Danish regulations and recommendations. For example, the computers have a lifespan of approximately five years, while the surveillance cameras have a lifespan of approximately 10-15 years.
Despite the municipality’s recommendation for a gradual approach, some politicians advocate for immediate action. Jakob Næsager, a Conservative children and youth mayor, emphasizes the importance of safeguarding against potential foreign influence and tapping opportunities, stating that the cost is justified to maintain a free and democratic society. Næsager believes all cameras should be replaced immediately, and that the computers should be checked for tapping opportunities. Replacing the surveillance cameras alone is estimated to cost almost 12 million kroner as quickly as possible.
The matter is further complicated by ongoing discussions between the Danish Association of Municipalities and the government regarding the procurement of Chinese hardware through the joint purchasing organization SKI. The municipality intends to await the outcome of these discussions before proceeding with a specific plan for Copenhagen.
The Finance Committee is scheduled to meet to discuss the mapping and recommendations and take a position on the matter.