Delays in Implementing European IT Alternatives Caused by Fear and Habits
Concerns over Europe's reliance on US tech giants have been voiced for years, but the transition to local alternatives is proving to be more complicated than anticipated.
Concerns about Europe's reliance on American technology giants have been growing for years, particularly as recent corporate decisions seem to align more closely with US President Donald Trump's policies, amplifying fears among Europeans. The situation raises questions about the sovereignty over technology and the challenges that come with establishing an independent technological landscape in Europe.
The co-chair of the German company 'Heinlein Group', Juta Horstmane, initially hoped that the shift would motivate numerous European firms to abandon American services. However, the anticipated transition to European alternatives is not happening as swiftly as she would desire. Horstmane notes that despite widespread discussions on sovereignty, little has actually changed in reality, primarily due to the complexities involved in moving away from systems that have been utilized for decades.
Horstmane emphasizes that breaking ties with established systems, which have been in place for around 40 years, is incredibly challenging. These long-standing relationships with trade representatives and lobbyists add to the obstacles against adopting new systems. The entrenched connections made over two decades create a significant barrier, making it hard for businesses to sever ties with a familiar system in favor of uncertain alternatives, even amidst calls for greater technological independence.