AI is changing how Europeans work and learn
High digital literacy and familiarity with technology drive AI adoption, while limited awareness and practical skills restrict use in some European nations.
Generative AI has become an everyday tool across Europe, with millions using platforms such as ChatGPT, Gemini and Grok for personal, work, and educational purposes. Eurostat data shows that around a third of people aged 16–74 tried AI tools at least once in 2025.
Adoption varies widely across the continent. Norway leads with 56 percent of the population using AI, while Turkey records only 17 percent.
Within the EU, Denmark tops usage at 48 percent, and Romania lags at 18 percent. Northern and digitally advanced countries dominate, while southern, central-eastern, and Balkan nations show lower engagement.
Researchers attribute this to general digital literacy, internet use, and familiarity with technology rather than government policy alone. AI tools are used more for personal purposes than for work.
Across the EU, 25 percent use AI for personal tasks, compared with 15 percent for professional applications.
Usage in education is even lower, with only 9 percent employing AI in formal learning, peaking at 21 percent in Sweden and Switzerland and dropping to just 1 percent in Hungary.
Experts stress that while access is essential, understanding how to apply AI effectively remains a key barrier. Countries with strong digital foundations adopt AI more, while limited awareness and skills restrict use, emphasising the need for AI literacy and infrastructure.
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