Gouda, 1 May 2025 – Dotlocal, part of The Sharing Group, has appointed former Frisian deputy and current mayor of Olst-Wijhe Sietske Poepjes as European Ambassador of Regional Digital Identities. In this role, Poepjes will work to highlight the importance of regional digital identity in Europe, in light of the upcoming introduction of new region-specific domain name extensions (so-called geoTLDs).
Digital identity starts locally
With this appointment, Dotlocal wants to send a strong message: the digital world does not just belong to big tech companies, but rather to regions, cities and communities. The European Commission underlines this in its digital strategy, in which sovereignty, recognisability and security are key pillars. The new round of region-based domains offers governments, entrepreneurs and residents another opportunity to shape their digital identity in a tailor-made way.
From .frl to European stage
Sietske Poepjes is no stranger to the world of digital regional identity. As deputy in the province of Fryslân, she was closely involved in the introduction of the successful domain name extension .frl, which put Friesland on the digital map. In her new role as mayor as well as ambassador for Dotlocal, she wants to use that experience for other regions in Europe.
“Digital identity is a modern form of community spirit,” said Sietske Poepjes. “With a region extension, you give your community a face online. This is about pride, recognisability and economic opportunities. I believe that we are stronger as regions in Europe if we are also visible and independent digitally.“
New round of region domains
After the success of previous extensions such as .frl (Friesland), .cat (Catalonia) and .amsterdam (Amsterdam), ICANN (the global organisation that manages domains) will soon open a new application round for geoTLDs. Dotlocal supports regions that want to position themselves in this round with knowledge, infrastructure and community-building.
“We are proud that Sietske shares our vision and wants to be the face of the movement,” says Siemen Roorda, Dotlocal’s Product Owner. “Her managerial experience as well as personal conviction make her the ideal ambassador to carry this message into Europe.“
About The Sharing Group
TSG operates within various markets with a focus on tech, energy and mobility. Starting from the Netherlands, the organisation is steadily expanding to the rest of Europe. Always and everywhere from the same starting point: more social impact, less environmental impact. TSG does so from various creative hubs throughout the Netherlands, from Rotterdam and Lelystad to Amsterdam.
