Europe’s Quantum Conundrum: Big Investment, Little Public Awareness

As Europe races to lead in cutting-edge technologies, quantum science is quickly becoming one of the most strategic—and least understood—frontiers. Despite the European Union placing quantum firmly on its tech agenda and investing millions in development, a recent survey reveals that most Europeans still don’t quite understand what quantum technology actually is.

This disconnect comes at a pivotal time. With 2025 marking the United Nations’ International Year of Quantum Science and Technology and 100 years since the development of quantum mechanics, experts say public awareness and engagement are crucial if Europe hopes to build a globally competitive quantum ecosystem.

What Is Quantum Technology, Anyway?

Quantum science explores the behaviour of the smallest building blocks of our universe—particles like electrons, photons, and atoms—that follow the rules of quantum mechanics rather than classical physics. These particles behave in strange and fascinating ways, such as existing in multiple states at once or becoming "entangled" with one another across vast distances.

These principles aren’t just scientific curiosities. They’re the foundation for some of the most powerful modern technologies. Think GPS systems, semiconductors, MRI scanners—all of them are rooted in quantum mechanics.

Today, the promise of quantum extends to emerging tools like ultra-precise quantum sensors, ultra-secure quantum encryption, and game-changing quantum computers that could solve problems current supercomputers can’t even begin to crack.

Public Awareness: Still in the Dark

Despite the EU’s quantum push, most people across Europe are still hazy on the concept. According to the first comprehensive survey on European attitudes towards quantum science—conducted by YouGov and released to mark World Quantum Day—most adults in France and Germany (78%) said they had heard of quantum technology.

But here’s the twist: only about a third of those respondents claimed to understand what it is. Almost half admitted they’d heard of quantum, but had no idea what it actually means.

This knowledge gap presents a major challenge. “It’s hard to rally public and political support for something so abstract,” noted one quantum communications expert. “The benefits of quantum aren’t just theoretical—they’re real and tangible. But without widespread understanding, it’s harder to justify the needed investment.”

Optimism Amid Uncertainty

Still, the survey offered some cause for optimism. Nearly half of respondents believe quantum technology will have a positive impact on their country within the next five years. There’s hope that quantum breakthroughs could revolutionise sectors from healthcare to climate monitoring.

In medicine, for example, quantum sensors could lead to more precise medical imaging, while quantum computing may accelerate drug discovery by simulating molecular interactions with unprecedented accuracy. In energy, quantum algorithms could optimise resource use and grid systems. And in cybersecurity, quantum encryption could safeguard communications against future cyber threats.

Europe’s Quantum Strategy

Recognising quantum’s potential, the EU is stepping up. In November, EU tech commissioner Henna Virkkunen outlined a roadmap for developing a European quantum chip and proposed a “Quantum Act” to accelerate progress. Last year, the EU earmarked €65 million specifically for quantum chip development as part of a broader €200 million investment under the EU Chips Act.

Meanwhile, the UK marked World Quantum Day with a £121 million (€140 million) pledge to support quantum research aimed at solving real-world problems like fraud and money laundering.

But experts say that funding alone isn’t enough.

Playing Catch-Up with China and the U.S.

Despite the EU’s ambitions, Europe still trails global leaders like China and the United States in quantum research and deployment. One major issue is private investment—or the lack thereof.

“Europe suffers from very limited private investments in quantum technologies vis-à-vis other geo-blocks,” said former European Central Bank president Mario Draghi in his recent report on the future of European competitiveness. He urged the EU to develop a globally competitive ecosystem that attracts startups, investors, and researchers alike.

Even though Europe boasts some of the brightest minds in quantum—like Nobel laureate Anton Zeilinger—there remains a pressing need for infrastructure, talent pipelines, and coordinated industrial strategy.

A Quantum Future That Includes Everyone

As quantum technology moves from theory to practice, the challenge for Europe isn’t just technological—it’s educational. The science may be complex, but the stakes are clear: quantum will shape the future of healthcare, energy, communication, and more. Without greater public understanding and engagement, Europe risks falling behind despite its promising early steps.

The good news? World Quantum Day and the International Year of Quantum Science offer a prime opportunity to bridge the gap. By demystifying quantum and making its relevance clear to everyday life, Europe can build a more informed, enthusiastic public—one ready to support the next great leap in science and technology.

Conclusion

Quantum technology holds enormous promise for solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges—from revolutionising healthcare and cybersecurity to advancing climate solutions. Europe is making significant strides with public investments and strategic planning, but the journey to quantum leadership requires more than funding and infrastructure. It needs an informed and engaged public.

As surveys show, awareness of quantum science is growing, but deep understanding remains limited. Bridging that knowledge gap is essential—not only to ensure that citizens can appreciate and support these advances, but also to cultivate the next generation of innovators and researchers. With 2025 marking the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, now is the perfect moment for Europe to not only invest in quantum tech—but also in quantum literacy.