The Culture Dataspace (Datenraum Kultur) – a Data-Sovereign Open-Source Digital Infrastructure based on the Eclipse Dataspace Components (EDC) Framework

Abstract. The Datenraum Kultur (Culture Dataspace) project represents a strategic data infrastructure initiative within the EU Digital Strategy framework, designed to transform data sharing in the cultural, media, and creative industries, pioneering innovative approaches to create new digital services while respecting intellectual property rights. As a flagship project in Germany’s National Digital Strategy, it aims to develop foundational infrastructure for the future data economy. The project focuses on a B2B data exchange model that aims to accelerate value-added digital service development. It is characterized by three key architectural principles: (1) data sovereignty, ensuring content owners maintain control over their digital assets; (2) decentralized architecture, facilitating direct content transfer between stakeholders without centralized routing; and (3) collaborative ecosystem development, for negotiated content exchange within trusted networks. Beyond economic considerations, Datenraum Kultur addresses a societal need for culture in the digital age, highlighting trustworthy relationships among actors, ultimately strengthening the competitiveness and relevance of the cultural sector while maintaining participant autonomy in an increasingly data-driven landscape.