I think language is currently a massive hurdle for Europe (UK excepted) in attracting workers. Tech is fundamentally centred around English, to the extent that not being able to use English could be considered a hindrance, and thus most non-native English speaking techies are likely to speak English, and therefore English speaking countries are probably a more natural destination for them.
I would love to work in Europe but having to make the massive investment of time into learning another language just to be able to function in every day life is a huge disincentive.
You also have to consider culture. The UK is in some ways still a class ridden, backward, semi-feudal society, but in terms of business it seems to be easier to get things done than most of the rest of Europe. It does seem from what I've read like initiative and entrepreneurialism has a harder time in Europe (outside the UK). I'd speculate that there are powerful vested interests that act to discourage a change to the status quo, whereas the US/UK are more capitalist and anarchic in their culture, and thus throw up more successes.
I would love to work in Europe but having to make the massive investment of time into learning another language just to be able to function in every day life is a huge disincentive.
You also have to consider culture. The UK is in some ways still a class ridden, backward, semi-feudal society, but in terms of business it seems to be easier to get things done than most of the rest of Europe. It does seem from what I've read like initiative and entrepreneurialism has a harder time in Europe (outside the UK). I'd speculate that there are powerful vested interests that act to discourage a change to the status quo, whereas the US/UK are more capitalist and anarchic in their culture, and thus throw up more successes.