In a bold move toward European digital sovereignty, French search engine Qwant and Germany’s Ecosia have teamed up to create a European alternative to Google. Their new venture, European Search Perspectives (EUSP), aims to establish an independent search index that aligns with European values of data privacy, security, and sustainability. Set to launch by the end of the first quarter of 2025, EUSP will initially operate in French and German.
Reducing Dependence on US Tech Giants
Qwant and Ecosia’s objective is clear: to break Europe’s reliance on Google and Microsoft, which dominate 95% of the global search market (excluding China). This dependency has posed concerns over data security, privacy, and the influence of non-European digital monopolies.
Although both search engines currently rely on Google and Microsoft (via Bing) for parts of their search capabilities, Qwant, which was acquired by Synfonium in 2023, has made strides in reducing its dependence on Bing. With EUSP, Qwant and Ecosia aim to create a European-led search platform that offers greater independence from these US tech giants.
Advocating European Values
Beyond independence, Qwant and Ecosia hope to bring a uniquely European ethos to the world of search engines, one focused on confidentiality, data security, and ecological responsibility. Qwant CEO Olivier Abecassis remarked on the importance of establishing digital sovereignty within Europe, especially amid shifting dynamics in global technology and data usage.
The Context: AI, EU Regulations, and Global Shifts
EUSP’s announcement comes at a time when the digital landscape is being transformed by artificial intelligence and regulatory changes. The rapid integration of AI tools, particularly in search with products like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, has shaken Google’s dominance in online search. This shift has led American tech giants to re-evaluate their data models and user accessibility, a move spurred by rising AI-related costs and privacy concerns.
In addition to AI advancements, the EU has undertaken significant legislative changes, including the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and the Digital Services Act (DSA), aimed at reducing dependency on American technology and establishing stricter rules for digital practices within the EU. The regulatory environment, alongside the recent re-election of Donald Trump and potential shifts in US tech policy, has amplified European calls for digital sovereignty.
Toward a European Digital Future
The partnership between Qwant and Ecosia represents a strategic move for Europe’s digital independence. They envision EUSP as a “strong and independent alternative” to current search platforms, with a focus on aligning with European regulatory standards and promoting user-friendly, privacy-centric technology. By establishing their own search index, the companies hope to build a sustainable digital ecosystem that is better attuned to European citizens’ values and needs, potentially setting the stage for a new era of digital pluralism in Europe.