Kutse

2

#StateofEU

In partnership with:

Voices, choices and leadership:

a tipping point for Europe?

In the 2024 edition, State of Europe will again blend a range of diverse formats to offer lively exchange

and fresh thinking. In addition to early bird masterclasses and high-level sessions, we will host screen-

ings of (short) films and documentaries, idea-sharing talks, and high-level, closed-door meetings for a

limited number of senior stakeholders to offer insights on the way forward for the most pressing issues

challenging Europe.

By the end of 2024, more than two billion voters around the world will have been invited to the polls

to make their voices heard. This unprecedented election year is poised to have profound effects, her-

alding an era of significant global transformation and opportunity. Election results are also expected

to mirror a broader global sentiment: an increasing disillusionment with present politicians’ promises

for the future, reflecting a deep-seated scepticism towards the notion of progress.

The 2024 European Parliamentary elections were expected to deliver a dramatic far-right surge, but

instead gave place to a more nuanced picture likely to further complicate consensus-building on im-

portant policy issues in the next institutional cycle. The elections impacted national politics, albeit

differently according to the member state, underscoring dynamics at play between national and EU-

level politics.

The European elections did not only provide insights into citizens’ present-day concerns, but also

gauged what hope there is for a future challenged by war, geopolitical shifts, heightened competition

among global tech powers, the climate emergency, high levels of public debt and growing socio-

economic disparities, to name but a few.

The pace, scope, and depth of social, economic, political, and technological change from 2019 to

2024 have been remarkable, setting a breathtaking context for future possibilities. We can realistical-

ly expect even faster and more profound changes in the coming term. More likely than not, the com-

ing years will bring about even greater polarisation. However, as political leadership changes across

the world and a new European institutional cycle begins, 2025 has the potential to kick-start an era in

which Europe delivers the governance its citizens need: a social and competitive Europe that keeps

Europeans healthy and safe, meets economic ambitions, and retains social imperatives at the centre

of all considerations.

We must tear up the old rule book and reimagine a new one better suited for today’s challenges as

traditional methods will not be effective in managing our crises. We must reimagine the tools at our

disposal and the EU must now overhaul the social contract established in the last century to ensure

its survival.

Friends of Europe argues for a Renewed Social Contract as the key to achieving the inclusive and fair

transitions, peace and security and social prosperity needed for Europe to care for its citizens and

retain its role on the global stage. Building upon the ideas set out in Friends of Europe’s recently pub-

lished ‘10 policy choices for a Renewed Social Contract for Europe’, the 21st State of Europe high-

level roundtable will be dedicated to sketching the Europe we want the new European Commission to

work towards.

.

2

#StateofEU

Wednesday 6 November

18.30 President’s Gala Dinner

On the eve of State of Europe, Count Etienne Davignon, President of the Board of Trustees of Friends

of Europe, and Thomas Leysen, President of the Governing Board of Friends of Europe, will invite

several hundred high-level guests to the President’s Gala Dinner.

The President’s Gala Dinner is an informal, yet intellectually stimulating and entertaining,

opportunity for guests to connect ahead of the next day’s debates.

3

#StateofEU

Thursday 7 November

8.30-17.30 State of Europe high-level roundtable The annual State of Europe high-level roundtable gathers 200+ influential figures from more than 40

countries: sitting and former (prime) ministers, CEOs, NGO leaders, top European officials, members

of parliaments, influencers, top journalists, and European Young Leaders (EYL40) to generate new

ideas in a novel and productive way.

The landscape and challenges European politicians face today are incomparable with those of the

2019 European elections. As political leadership changes across the world in this ‘ultimate election

year’ and a new European mandate begins, 2025 has the potential to kick-start a new era of govern-

ance. State of Europe 2024 will focus on deliberating the choices Europe must make to deliver the

governance its citizens need in an increasingly challenging environment – one that includes the

Ukraine war, intensifying great-power competition, and a deteriorating climate-social crisis.

4

#StateofEU

08.00-08.30 W e l c o m e c o f f e e a n d r e g i s t r a t i o n

08.30-09.20 E A R L Y - B I R D B R I E F I N G S

Europe in the world

This series of early-bird briefings, hosted by leading experts across various disciplines, will

serve as a stock-taking exercise.

The sessions will include concise, engaging discussions aimed at exploring Europe's role on the

global stage, and particularly its relationships with Brazil, China, India, the African continent

and the Middle East region.

Thursday 7 November

09.30-10.00 S C E N E - S E T T I N G

Yes, we can! Financing Europe's Renewed Social Con-

tract

As the EU and its Member states navigate through fluctuating unemployment rates, diverse

national debt scenarios about GDP, and the allocation of government expenditure across crucial

sectors, Friends of Europe seizes the opportunity to reimagine Europe's social contract in a

manner that harmonises economic resilience with social solidarity. With a particular focus on

the financial underpinnings of a Renewed Social Contract and dispelling the myth that caring for

its citizens and maintaining geopolitical prowess are mutually exclusive goals for Europe, we

invite policymakers, economists, thought leaders and citizens to brainstorm as to the financial

underpinnings of a fair and competitive Europe.

09.45-11.00 O P E N I N G S E S S I O N

A social and competitive Europe

As the European Union enters a new institutional cycle, the focus is expected to pivot towards

boosting industrial competitiveness, bolstering defence in response to the war in Ukraine and

fortifying the single market – all amidst mounting pressures to foster green industrial develop-

ment and secure strategic autonomy in the face of global challenges.

Recent years have been marked by the devastating impacts of natural and human-made crises,

the uncertainty brought about by emerging technologies and digital developments, and in-

creased polarisation. These significant events and transitions have underscored citizens’ calls

for a more social Europe—which transcends mere economic success—to address energy pov-

erty, provide robust social services, deliver resilient health systems, and uphold European val-

ues. The ending mandate's emphasis on social needs, intensified by the pandemic's fallout,

showcased the essential role of state intervention in safeguarding employment and supporting

the vulnerable, suggesting a broad endorsement of more comprehensive social and health poli-

cies.

The landscape and challenges politicians face today are incomparable with those of the 2019

European elections. As Europe embarks on a new mandate and navigates an increasingly com-

plex landscape, all actors in society must work together to reconcile the imperative of economic

vitality – paramount to providing the components for a good life, but insufficient in itself – with

the equally crucial need for social solidarity and inclusion. As demonstrated during the 2019-

2024 mandate, economic growth and social growth can only go hand in hand.

5

#StateofEU

11.00-11.30 C o f f e e b r e a k

• How can the new European institutional cycle balance competitiveness, economic

growth, and social prosperity?

• In what ways can state interventions contribute to building economic resilience?

• What strategies should Europe adopt to reinforce its social agenda and enhance the

quality of life for all while facing global challenges?

• What role can digitalisation play in boosting European competitiveness and social resili-

ence?

11.30-11.45 I D E A S H A R I N G

11.45-13.00 S E S S I O N I

Enlarging Europe: at what cost and what structure?

In the wake of geopolitical upheavals, notably Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the European Union is at

a critical juncture with renewed momentum for its enlargement process. This newfound consensus

and momentum – in stark contrast with pre-war enlargement fatigue – offer an unparalleled

opportunity for strategic reforms that would fundamentally enhance the EU's institutional readiness

and policy coherence as well as facilitate its enlargement.

Future EU accessions will be negotiated under increasingly complex circumstances. As the EU con-

templates this expansion, the imperative for internal integration intensifies, underscored by global

uncertainties and the demand for swift, unified action across foreign, defence and economic poli-

cies. EU ambitions across various policies will likely need to be adapted to fit the new reality of an

enlarged Europe. Similarly, the approach to enlargement will need to be designed to accommodate

current and incoming member states’ collective ambition.

The ‘if’ of European enlargement seems to have been replaced by a ‘when’. EU enlargement neces-

sitates strategic reforms, enhanced policy coherence, and swift integration to ensure the Union's

values and objectives remain robust.

The next enlargement of the European Union will change the situation for some member states,

which will become net contributors. In the current geopolitical and geoeconomic situation, it will be

essential to define what should be the priorities for the European Union in the next 10 or 20 years

and which European policies bring the most value to all member states.

• As societal polarisation and political fragmentation continue to rise within the EU, what

measures will be taken to ensure that the enlargement process strengthens rather than

exacerbates these divisions?

• Considering the complex and often slow-moving nature of EU policy reforms, what specific

steps will the incoming European Commission take to accelerate internal integration and

policy coherence in preparation for future enlargements?

• What should be the priorities for the European Union in the next 10 or 20 years and which

European policies bring the most value to all member states.

• What reforms would be necessary for the EU to manage the economic and financial impact of

new member states with lower GDP per capita joining the Union?

13.00-14.00

L u n c h

6

#StateofEU

11.30-11.45 I D E A S H A R I N G

11.45-13.00 S E S S I O N I I

Stepping up: A new era for international climate

leadership

The introduction of the European Green Deal, and the corresponding legal obligation to reach

net-zero by 2050, were defining features of the 2019-2024 EU mandate. The implementation

of Green Deal measures helped position the EU as a global leader in the fight against climate

change.

Despite the progress of the last five years, support for the EU’s ‘man on the moon’ moment is

slipping. In 2024, we see European policymakers shift focus to the challenge of EU

competitiveness and there have been calls by some European leaders to pause the

introduction of new environmental regulations, altogether. However, data show that the EU has

benefited from being a first-mover in its climate mitigation strategy and there are strong

arguments that by scaling-and-speeding-up net-zero policies, European competitiveness can

improve.

We cannot ignore the reality that we are heading towards climate overshoot, wich will also bear

public health consequences. As we enter the mid-point of ‘the decade of climate action’, it is

clear that we need a new approach to international climate leadership. It is also clear that

Europe cannot go at it alone and that any effort towards fighting climate change must be had in

close collaboration with other countries and regions around the globe as well as international

institutions such as the United Nations.

Regardless of the outcome of the US Presidential election, Europe will be engaging with

partners in a highly fractured and uncertain international environment, rife with geoeconomic

and geopolitical threats. In this era of profound political uncertainty, the EU, building on its

Green Deal matrix, can take a more active role in international climate diplomacy. A more

assertive EU in this domain, also putting forward health as well as economic and industrial

arguments, would strengthen the block, send an important signal to investors of a long-term

commitment to sustainability, and crucially, would help to avert runaway climate change.

In a period where unpredictability abounds, grounded and dependable international climate

leadership is essential if we are to realise a climate-safe future for all.

• How can climate justice be mainstreamed in international climate accords?

• Are current EU energy diplomacy efforts compatible with the green transition ?

• In advance of COP29 in Baku, how credible is the COP system in 2024?

• Are European stakeholders understanding the co-benefits of climate action for public

health ? What do citizens have to say on this?

• How can Europe better collaborate with global partners?

13.00-14.00 L u n c h

7

#StateofEU

14.00-14.15

I D E A S H A R I N G

14.15-15.30 S E S S I O N I I I

Ukraine: reimagining defence and security

While the costs of the Russian invasion of Ukraine borne by Europe are high, the toll in lives and

broader political and socio-economic implications of a Ukrainian non-victory scenario will be

much higher. Despite sanctions against Russia and increased military support for Ukraine un-

derscoring the EU’s commitment to upholding international law and supporting Ukraine’s sov-

ereignty, there is an urgent necessity for a more unified and robust European response.

As the war in Ukraine continues, its ability to mobilise support and engage Europeans has be-

gun to wane, hinting at fatigue considering the multiple crises impacting European citizens’

lives.

The war in Ukraine and the increasing threat of a Russian attack on NATO in the coming years

have created an important impetus for Europe to reimagine its defence industrial readiness

and cooperation. Boosting Europe’s defence capabilities will benefit Ukraine, the European

Union, and the broader NATO Alliance, solidifying transatlantic security guarantees and reas-

suring North American allies. While the EU has taken unprecedented leaps forward in the form

of the European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS) and the European Defence Industry Pro-

gramme (EDIP), which aim to enhance the Union's defence industrial readiness and reinforce

its capacity to protect its citizens, efforts must continue under the next mandate.

• How can Europe enhance its preparedness for war and conflict situations and what role

can non-EU countries such as the United Kingdom play in Europe’s security and defence

apparatus?

• What have the past two years taught us about the effectiveness of multilateral

organisations in preserving peace and encouraging dialogue and cooperation?

• The nature of warfare is changing; how is the private sector, specifically tech and tele-

communication companies, adapting ?

• How can cooperation between the Ukrainian and EU/NATO defence sectors be better

and further promoted?

15.30-16.00 C o f f e e b r e a k

8

#StateofEU

14.00-14.15 I D E A S H A R I N G

14.15-15.30 S E S S I O N I V

Digital horizons: catalysing the EU’s industrial evolu-

tion through innovation

As the new EU institutional cycle approaches, the block’s readiness to leverage the continent's

digital potential will be critical. The integration of emerging technologies, such as Artificial In-

telligence (AI), promises significant advancements for Europe. These digital innovations pre-

sent opportunities to optimise energy consumption, enhance connectivity, and maximise re-

source efficiency. By 2024, Europe has advanced significantly in digitalisation compared to

2019. However, as we delve deeper into the digital era, policymakers must continue to focus

on fostering a strong European technological infrastructure, promoting public-private partner-

ships, investing in and rolling out critical infrastructure, and ensuring the equitable distribution

of digital dividends across all sectors and regions within the Single Market.

By leveraging technology, data and connectivity, a robust digital plan of action could redefine

the EU economic and industrial fabric, at a time of increasing geo-economic competition. If

successfully harnessed, they could help to establish Europe as a digital powerhouse, pioneer-

ing technological solutions to address competitiveness and sustainability concerns, for exam-

ple.

The European digital landscape is a patchwork of digital initiatives, connectivity and critical

infrastructure. If digitalisation is to remain a top European priority - and given the crucial im-

portance of the Single Market for strengthening European competitiveness - policymakers,

business leaders, and civil society organisations will need to work together so that regulatory

frameworks can be adapted to foster innovation and expedite the rollout of digital infrastruc-

ture, while, at the same time, adhering to rigorous standards that protect, and promote, the

social good.

• How can we facilitate growth and increase investment attractiveness in Europe for tech

leaders, leading to stronger European competitiveness ?

• What strategies can the EU adopt to enhance the performance and scalability of its

companies to close the gap with US and Chinese counterparts?

• What strategies can be implemented to foster a robust digital infrastructure and work-

force capable of supporting the EU's ambitions in a rapidly evolving global tech land-

scape?

• How can European industries harness emerging technologies such as AI in ways that

both enhance competitiveness and meet the sustainability goals set forth in the Europe-

an Green Deal?

15.30-16.00 C o f f e e b r e a k

9

#StateofEU

16.00-17.30 C L O S I N G S E S S I O N

Transatlantic ties reimagined: a new vision for

cooperation

In partnership, the EU and the US, are committed to jointly supporting the principles of freedom,

democracy, and the rule of law worldwide. They are each other’s primary strategic partners, and

their economic partnership is the single-most important driver of global economic growth,

trade, and prosperity. Taken together, the economies of both territories constitute close to one

third of world GDP purchasing power. To navigate the complexities of the 21st century, howev-

er, the US-EU partnership must be revitalized and recalibrated to ensure mutual prosperity and

benefits of existing arrangements of trade, economy, and security and defence. In an era

marked by rapid technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, and emerging global challeng-

es, the transatlantic alliance faces unprecedented opportunities and challenges.

With the world standing at a crossroads, the outcomes of the upcoming elections on both sides

of the Atlantic are poised to redefine the contours of EU-US cooperation, and heavily determine

the tone of 21st century geopolitics. Designed to unfold in the immediate aftermath of the US

Presidential elections, this discussion will come at a crucial juncture as the new European Par-

liament will have taken its place, and the United States will have voted their 47th President just

two days prior. Beyond acknowledging election results and the trajectory of the next five years,

the State of Europe will be the occasion for all present to make sense of the future and tenacity

of the transatlantic bond as well as the very meaning of Western ideals.

• How will Europe and the US reconcile their economic and industrial ambitions with envi-

ronmental imperatives, particularly considering competing interests and the global ener-

gy crisis?

• What is the framework for the future transatlantic relationship and is there a future role

for the EU-US Trade and Technology Council (TTC)?

• How can the Eu, the UK and US collaboratively ensure their approach to global challeng-

es does not marginalise emerging economies or exacerbate global inequities?

• What does an increased geostrategic focus of the US on China and the Indo-Pacific mean

for Europe?

17.30 End of the high level roundtable, followed by Friends of Europe ’s Board of Trustees meeting

(by invitation only)

10

#StateofEU

2

#StateofEU

In partnership with:

Voices, choices and leadership:

a tipping point for Europe?

In the 2024 edition, State of Europe will again blend a range of diverse formats to offer lively exchange

and fresh thinking. In addition to early bird masterclasses and high-level sessions, we will host screen-

ings of (short) films and documentaries, idea-sharing talks, and high-level, closed-door meetings for a

limited number of senior stakeholders to offer insights on the way forward for the most pressing issues

challenging Europe.

By the end of 2024, more than two billion voters around the world will have been invited to the polls

to make their voices heard. This unprecedented election year is poised to have profound effects, her-

alding an era of significant global transformation and opportunity. Election results are also expected

to mirror a broader global sentiment: an increasing disillusionment with present politicians’ promises

for the future, reflecting a deep-seated scepticism towards the notion of progress.

The 2024 European Parliamentary elections were expected to deliver a dramatic far-right surge, but

instead gave place to a more nuanced picture likely to further complicate consensus-building on im-

portant policy issues in the next institutional cycle. The elections impacted national politics, albeit

differently according to the member state, underscoring dynamics at play between national and EU-

level politics.

The European elections did not only provide insights into citizens’ present-day concerns, but also

gauged what hope there is for a future challenged by war, geopolitical shifts, heightened competition

among global tech powers, the climate emergency, high levels of public debt and growing socio-

economic disparities, to name but a few.

The pace, scope, and depth of social, economic, political, and technological change from 2019 to

2024 have been remarkable, setting a breathtaking context for future possibilities. We can realistical-

ly expect even faster and more profound changes in the coming term. More likely than not, the com-

ing years will bring about even greater polarisation. However, as political leadership changes across

the world and a new European institutional cycle begins, 2025 has the potential to kick-start an era in

which Europe delivers the governance its citizens need: a social and competitive Europe that keeps

Europeans healthy and safe, meets economic ambitions, and retains social imperatives at the centre

of all considerations.

We must tear up the old rule book and reimagine a new one better suited for today’s challenges as

traditional methods will not be effective in managing our crises. We must reimagine the tools at our

disposal and the EU must now overhaul the social contract established in the last century to ensure

its survival.

Friends of Europe argues for a Renewed Social Contract as the key to achieving the inclusive and fair

transitions, peace and security and social prosperity needed for Europe to care for its citizens and

retain its role on the global stage. Building upon the ideas set out in Friends of Europe’s recently pub-

lished ‘10 policy choices for a Renewed Social Contract for Europe’, the 21st State of Europe high-

level roundtable will be dedicated to sketching the Europe we want the new European Commission to

work towards.

.

2

#StateofEU

Wednesday 6 November

18.30 President’s Gala Dinner

On the eve of State of Europe, Count Etienne Davignon, President of the Board of Trustees of Friends

of Europe, and Thomas Leysen, President of the Governing Board of Friends of Europe, will invite

several hundred high-level guests to the President’s Gala Dinner.

The President’s Gala Dinner is an informal, yet intellectually stimulating and entertaining,

opportunity for guests to connect ahead of the next day’s debates.

3

#StateofEU

Thursday 7 November

8.30-17.30 State of Europe high-level roundtable The annual State of Europe high-level roundtable gathers 200+ influential figures from more than 40

countries: sitting and former (prime) ministers, CEOs, NGO leaders, top European officials, members

of parliaments, influencers, top journalists, and European Young Leaders (EYL40) to generate new

ideas in a novel and productive way.

The landscape and challenges European politicians face today are incomparable with those of the

2019 European elections. As political leadership changes across the world in this ‘ultimate election

year’ and a new European mandate begins, 2025 has the potential to kick-start a new era of govern-

ance. State of Europe 2024 will focus on deliberating the choices Europe must make to deliver the

governance its citizens need in an increasingly challenging environment – one that includes the

Ukraine war, intensifying great-power competition, and a deteriorating climate-social crisis.

4

#StateofEU

08.00-08.30 W e l c o m e c o f f e e a n d r e g i s t r a t i o n

08.30-09.20 E A R L Y - B I R D B R I E F I N G S

Europe in the world

This series of early-bird briefings, hosted by leading experts across various disciplines, will

serve as a stock-taking exercise.

The sessions will include concise, engaging discussions aimed at exploring Europe's role on the

global stage, and particularly its relationships with Brazil, China, India, the African continent

and the Middle East region.

Thursday 7 November

09.30-10.00 S C E N E - S E T T I N G

Yes, we can! Financing Europe's Renewed Social Con-

tract

As the EU and its Member states navigate through fluctuating unemployment rates, diverse

national debt scenarios about GDP, and the allocation of government expenditure across crucial

sectors, Friends of Europe seizes the opportunity to reimagine Europe's social contract in a

manner that harmonises economic resilience with social solidarity. With a particular focus on

the financial underpinnings of a Renewed Social Contract and dispelling the myth that caring for

its citizens and maintaining geopolitical prowess are mutually exclusive goals for Europe, we

invite policymakers, economists, thought leaders and citizens to brainstorm as to the financial

underpinnings of a fair and competitive Europe.

09.45-11.00 O P E N I N G S E S S I O N

A social and competitive Europe

As the European Union enters a new institutional cycle, the focus is expected to pivot towards

boosting industrial competitiveness, bolstering defence in response to the war in Ukraine and

fortifying the single market – all amidst mounting pressures to foster green industrial develop-

ment and secure strategic autonomy in the face of global challenges.

Recent years have been marked by the devastating impacts of natural and human-made crises,

the uncertainty brought about by emerging technologies and digital developments, and in-

creased polarisation. These significant events and transitions have underscored citizens’ calls

for a more social Europe—which transcends mere economic success—to address energy pov-

erty, provide robust social services, deliver resilient health systems, and uphold European val-

ues. The ending mandate's emphasis on social needs, intensified by the pandemic's fallout,

showcased the essential role of state intervention in safeguarding employment and supporting

the vulnerable, suggesting a broad endorsement of more comprehensive social and health poli-

cies.

The landscape and challenges politicians face today are incomparable with those of the 2019

European elections. As Europe embarks on a new mandate and navigates an increasingly com-

plex landscape, all actors in society must work together to reconcile the imperative of economic

vitality – paramount to providing the components for a good life, but insufficient in itself – with

the equally crucial need for social solidarity and inclusion. As demonstrated during the 2019-

2024 mandate, economic growth and social growth can only go hand in hand.

5

#StateofEU

11.00-11.30 C o f f e e b r e a k

• How can the new European institutional cycle balance competitiveness, economic

growth, and social prosperity?

• In what ways can state interventions contribute to building economic resilience?

• What strategies should Europe adopt to reinforce its social agenda and enhance the

quality of life for all while facing global challenges?

• What role can digitalisation play in boosting European competitiveness and social resili-

ence?

11.30-11.45 I D E A S H A R I N G

11.45-13.00 S E S S I O N I

Enlarging Europe: at what cost and what structure?

In the wake of geopolitical upheavals, notably Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the European Union is at

a critical juncture with renewed momentum for its enlargement process. This newfound consensus

and momentum – in stark contrast with pre-war enlargement fatigue – offer an unparalleled

opportunity for strategic reforms that would fundamentally enhance the EU's institutional readiness

and policy coherence as well as facilitate its enlargement.

Future EU accessions will be negotiated under increasingly complex circumstances. As the EU con-

templates this expansion, the imperative for internal integration intensifies, underscored by global

uncertainties and the demand for swift, unified action across foreign, defence and economic poli-

cies. EU ambitions across various policies will likely need to be adapted to fit the new reality of an

enlarged Europe. Similarly, the approach to enlargement will need to be designed to accommodate

current and incoming member states’ collective ambition.

The ‘if’ of European enlargement seems to have been replaced by a ‘when’. EU enlargement neces-

sitates strategic reforms, enhanced policy coherence, and swift integration to ensure the Union's

values and objectives remain robust.

The next enlargement of the European Union will change the situation for some member states,

which will become net contributors. In the current geopolitical and geoeconomic situation, it will be

essential to define what should be the priorities for the European Union in the next 10 or 20 years

and which European policies bring the most value to all member states.

• As societal polarisation and political fragmentation continue to rise within the EU, what

measures will be taken to ensure that the enlargement process strengthens rather than

exacerbates these divisions?

• Considering the complex and often slow-moving nature of EU policy reforms, what specific

steps will the incoming European Commission take to accelerate internal integration and

policy coherence in preparation for future enlargements?

• What should be the priorities for the European Union in the next 10 or 20 years and which

European policies bring the most value to all member states.

• What reforms would be necessary for the EU to manage the economic and financial impact of

new member states with lower GDP per capita joining the Union?

13.00-14.00

L u n c h

6

#StateofEU

11.30-11.45 I D E A S H A R I N G

11.45-13.00 S E S S I O N I I

Stepping up: A new era for international climate

leadership

The introduction of the European Green Deal, and the corresponding legal obligation to reach

net-zero by 2050, were defining features of the 2019-2024 EU mandate. The implementation

of Green Deal measures helped position the EU as a global leader in the fight against climate

change.

Despite the progress of the last five years, support for the EU’s ‘man on the moon’ moment is

slipping. In 2024, we see European policymakers shift focus to the challenge of EU

competitiveness and there have been calls by some European leaders to pause the

introduction of new environmental regulations, altogether. However, data show that the EU has

benefited from being a first-mover in its climate mitigation strategy and there are strong

arguments that by scaling-and-speeding-up net-zero policies, European competitiveness can

improve.

We cannot ignore the reality that we are heading towards climate overshoot, wich will also bear

public health consequences. As we enter the mid-point of ‘the decade of climate action’, it is

clear that we need a new approach to international climate leadership. It is also clear that

Europe cannot go at it alone and that any effort towards fighting climate change must be had in

close collaboration with other countries and regions around the globe as well as international

institutions such as the United Nations.

Regardless of the outcome of the US Presidential election, Europe will be engaging with

partners in a highly fractured and uncertain international environment, rife with geoeconomic

and geopolitical threats. In this era of profound political uncertainty, the EU, building on its

Green Deal matrix, can take a more active role in international climate diplomacy. A more

assertive EU in this domain, also putting forward health as well as economic and industrial

arguments, would strengthen the block, send an important signal to investors of a long-term

commitment to sustainability, and crucially, would help to avert runaway climate change.

In a period where unpredictability abounds, grounded and dependable international climate

leadership is essential if we are to realise a climate-safe future for all.

• How can climate justice be mainstreamed in international climate accords?

• Are current EU energy diplomacy efforts compatible with the green transition ?

• In advance of COP29 in Baku, how credible is the COP system in 2024?

• Are European stakeholders understanding the co-benefits of climate action for public

health ? What do citizens have to say on this?

• How can Europe better collaborate with global partners?

13.00-14.00 L u n c h

7

#StateofEU

14.00-14.15

I D E A S H A R I N G

14.15-15.30 S E S S I O N I I I

Ukraine: reimagining defence and security

While the costs of the Russian invasion of Ukraine borne by Europe are high, the toll in lives and

broader political and socio-economic implications of a Ukrainian non-victory scenario will be

much higher. Despite sanctions against Russia and increased military support for Ukraine un-

derscoring the EU’s commitment to upholding international law and supporting Ukraine’s sov-

ereignty, there is an urgent necessity for a more unified and robust European response.

As the war in Ukraine continues, its ability to mobilise support and engage Europeans has be-

gun to wane, hinting at fatigue considering the multiple crises impacting European citizens’

lives.

The war in Ukraine and the increasing threat of a Russian attack on NATO in the coming years

have created an important impetus for Europe to reimagine its defence industrial readiness

and cooperation. Boosting Europe’s defence capabilities will benefit Ukraine, the European

Union, and the broader NATO Alliance, solidifying transatlantic security guarantees and reas-

suring North American allies. While the EU has taken unprecedented leaps forward in the form

of the European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS) and the European Defence Industry Pro-

gramme (EDIP), which aim to enhance the Union's defence industrial readiness and reinforce

its capacity to protect its citizens, efforts must continue under the next mandate.

• How can Europe enhance its preparedness for war and conflict situations and what role

can non-EU countries such as the United Kingdom play in Europe’s security and defence

apparatus?

• What have the past two years taught us about the effectiveness of multilateral

organisations in preserving peace and encouraging dialogue and cooperation?

• The nature of warfare is changing; how is the private sector, specifically tech and tele-

communication companies, adapting ?

• How can cooperation between the Ukrainian and EU/NATO defence sectors be better

and further promoted?

15.30-16.00 C o f f e e b r e a k

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14.00-14.15 I D E A S H A R I N G

14.15-15.30 S E S S I O N I V

Digital horizons: catalysing the EU’s industrial evolu-

tion through innovation

As the new EU institutional cycle approaches, the block’s readiness to leverage the continent's

digital potential will be critical. The integration of emerging technologies, such as Artificial In-

telligence (AI), promises significant advancements for Europe. These digital innovations pre-

sent opportunities to optimise energy consumption, enhance connectivity, and maximise re-

source efficiency. By 2024, Europe has advanced significantly in digitalisation compared to

2019. However, as we delve deeper into the digital era, policymakers must continue to focus

on fostering a strong European technological infrastructure, promoting public-private partner-

ships, investing in and rolling out critical infrastructure, and ensuring the equitable distribution

of digital dividends across all sectors and regions within the Single Market.

By leveraging technology, data and connectivity, a robust digital plan of action could redefine

the EU economic and industrial fabric, at a time of increasing geo-economic competition. If

successfully harnessed, they could help to establish Europe as a digital powerhouse, pioneer-

ing technological solutions to address competitiveness and sustainability concerns, for exam-

ple.

The European digital landscape is a patchwork of digital initiatives, connectivity and critical

infrastructure. If digitalisation is to remain a top European priority - and given the crucial im-

portance of the Single Market for strengthening European competitiveness - policymakers,

business leaders, and civil society organisations will need to work together so that regulatory

frameworks can be adapted to foster innovation and expedite the rollout of digital infrastruc-

ture, while, at the same time, adhering to rigorous standards that protect, and promote, the

social good.

• How can we facilitate growth and increase investment attractiveness in Europe for tech

leaders, leading to stronger European competitiveness ?

• What strategies can the EU adopt to enhance the performance and scalability of its

companies to close the gap with US and Chinese counterparts?

• What strategies can be implemented to foster a robust digital infrastructure and work-

force capable of supporting the EU's ambitions in a rapidly evolving global tech land-

scape?

• How can European industries harness emerging technologies such as AI in ways that

both enhance competitiveness and meet the sustainability goals set forth in the Europe-

an Green Deal?

15.30-16.00 C o f f e e b r e a k

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#StateofEU

16.00-17.30 C L O S I N G S E S S I O N

Transatlantic ties reimagined: a new vision for

cooperation

In partnership, the EU and the US, are committed to jointly supporting the principles of freedom,

democracy, and the rule of law worldwide. They are each other’s primary strategic partners, and

their economic partnership is the single-most important driver of global economic growth,

trade, and prosperity. Taken together, the economies of both territories constitute close to one

third of world GDP purchasing power. To navigate the complexities of the 21st century, howev-

er, the US-EU partnership must be revitalized and recalibrated to ensure mutual prosperity and

benefits of existing arrangements of trade, economy, and security and defence. In an era

marked by rapid technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, and emerging global challeng-

es, the transatlantic alliance faces unprecedented opportunities and challenges.

With the world standing at a crossroads, the outcomes of the upcoming elections on both sides

of the Atlantic are poised to redefine the contours of EU-US cooperation, and heavily determine

the tone of 21st century geopolitics. Designed to unfold in the immediate aftermath of the US

Presidential elections, this discussion will come at a crucial juncture as the new European Par-

liament will have taken its place, and the United States will have voted their 47th President just

two days prior. Beyond acknowledging election results and the trajectory of the next five years,

the State of Europe will be the occasion for all present to make sense of the future and tenacity

of the transatlantic bond as well as the very meaning of Western ideals.

• How will Europe and the US reconcile their economic and industrial ambitions with envi-

ronmental imperatives, particularly considering competing interests and the global ener-

gy crisis?

• What is the framework for the future transatlantic relationship and is there a future role

for the EU-US Trade and Technology Council (TTC)?

• How can the Eu, the UK and US collaboratively ensure their approach to global challeng-

es does not marginalise emerging economies or exacerbate global inequities?

• What does an increased geostrategic focus of the US on China and the Indo-Pacific mean

for Europe?

17.30 End of the high level roundtable, followed by Friends of Europe ’s Board of Trustees meeting

(by invitation only)

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