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US-based service - Your data may be subject to US CLOUD Act and accessed by US authorities

Slack logo

EU Alternative to Slack

🇺🇸US Company

by Salesforce

Slack is a messaging application developed by Salesforce, designed to facilitate communication and collaboration within teams and organizations. It offers a platform where users can create real-time collaboration channels, share files with version control, and integrate various project management tools. Slack is known for its customizable workflow automation and AI-powered message suggestions, which aim to enhance productivity and streamline communication. The application supports cross-application integrations, allowing users to connect with other tools they use daily. Additionally, Slack provides searchable message history and secure guest access for external partners, making it suitable for both internal and external communications. The primary users of Slack include businesses, project teams, and organizations looking for a centralized communication platform. It is important to note that Slack is a US-based product, and user data is stored in the United States, subject to US data laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. Slack operates on a freemium pricing model, offering basic features for free with additional functionalities available through paid plans.

💬Messaging Apps

Best European Alternatives to Slack

3 privacy-focused, GDPR-compliant alternatives

Element logo

Element

🇬🇧

by Element

Element is a secure messenger and collaboration platform built on the Matrix open protocol, developed by Element (formerly New Vector) in London, UK. It provides end-to-end encrypted messaging, voice/video calls, and bridging to other platforms (Slack, Teams, WhatsApp). Element is used by the French government, German military (Bundeswehr), and NATO for secure communications. Organizations can self-host for complete data sovereignty, or use Element's managed hosting.

Open SourceSelf-HostableISO 27001EU-hostedGDPR Compliant
freemiumMigration:●●●Several hours to a few days, depending on workspace size

Why switch?

  • Matrix protocol allows interoperability with other systems.
  • End-to-end encryption is enabled by default for all chats.
  • Self-hosting ensures data control and privacy compliance.

Consider

  • Migration from Slack may require significant time and effort.
  • Element lacks integrated project management tools.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Element
Wire logo

Wire

🇨🇭

by Wire

Wire is a secure collaboration platform founded in 2012 by Janus Friis (Skype co-founder) and headquartered in Zug, Switzerland. It offers end-to-end encrypted messaging, voice/video calls, and file sharing for teams. Wire is open source, independently audited, and used by government agencies and enterprises across Europe for classified communications. It supports self-hosted deployment for organizations requiring full data sovereignty.

EU-BasedGDPR CompliantOpen SourceSelf-HostableSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:●●●Several hours to a few days, depending on workspace size and complexity

Why switch?

  • End-to-end encryption ensures messages are secure from unauthorized access.
  • GDPR compliance means better data protection for EU users and organizations.
  • Self-hosted deployment option allows for greater control over data management.

Consider

  • Migration from Slack may require significant time and resources.
  • Missing advanced project management tools found in Slack's ecosystem.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Wire
Stoat logo

Stoat

🇬🇧

by Stoat

Stoat (formerly Revolt, rebranded in October 2025) is an open-source, privacy-focused messaging platform built in the UK. It provides a familiar Discord-like experience with servers, channels, voice chat, and rich media sharing — but with full GDPR compliance and EU data hosting. Stoat is fully self-hostable, giving communities and teams complete control over their data. It features fine-grained role-based permissions, end-to-end encryption, and does not require a phone number or real name to register. Ideal for privacy-conscious communities looking for a feature-rich alternative to Discord.

GDPR CompliantEU-hostedSelf-HostableOpen Source
freemiumMigration:●●●Several hours to a few days, depending on workspace size

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures strict data protection for EU users.
  • Open source allows for customization and community-driven improvements.
  • Real-time collaborative storytelling enhances user engagement and creativity.

Consider

  • Migration from Slack may disrupt existing workflows and team dynamics.
  • Fewer project management tools compared to Slack's integrated features.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Stoat

Why switch from Slack?

US CLOUD Act

US authorities can access your data stored by US companies, even if stored in Europe.

Privacy Concerns

US companies may collect and use your data in ways not compliant with EU standards.

EU Alternatives

EU-based services must comply with GDPR, giving you stronger privacy protections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there European alternatives to Slack?
Yes, there are several GDPR-compliant European alternatives to Slack. These EU-based services offer similar functionality while ensuring your data stays within EU jurisdiction and is protected under strict European privacy laws.
Why should I switch from Slack to an EU alternative?
Switching to an EU alternative gives you better data protection under GDPR, keeps your data in European data centers, and ensures you're not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act. Many EU alternatives offer comparable features with stronger privacy guarantees.
Is Slack GDPR compliant?
As a US-based company, Slack may transfer and process your data in the United States. While they may have GDPR compliance measures, your data could still be subject to US laws including the CLOUD Act.
How do I migrate from Slack to an EU alternative?
We provide detailed migration guides to help you switch from Slack to European alternatives. These guides include step-by-step instructions, data export procedures, and tips for a smooth transition.

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WhatsApp logo

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Ready to switch to a privacy-focused alternative?

Protect your data by moving to an EU-based service. Our migration guides make switching easy.

Complete Switching GuideMigration Guide

Related Pages

Resources

3 Best EU Alternatives to Slack (2026) - GDPR Compliant | BuiltInEu | BuiltInEu