Safeguarding Europe’s Democratic Future
Fondation Universitaire | Brussels | Weds 25 September | 18h30
The Europaeum, a network of leading European universities, invites alumni of all Europaeum programmes and events to join us at the Fondation Universitaire in Brussels for an evening discussing how European democracies must confront the pressing challenges of our time.
As Europe navigates the complex terrain of 2024, its democratic foundations face a multitude of interconnected challenges that demand urgent attention and decisive action. Internal pressures, such as populist movements, exploit societal divisions and continue to test the resilience of our established democratic institutions. External threats also loom large on the horizon, with Russian aggression casting a long shadow over European security and stability. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and concerns about further territorial ambitions have forced European democracies to reassess their defence strategies and alliances, while also managing the economic and social repercussions of prolonged tensions.
A panel of distinguished Brussels-based experts will discuss how we can meet these challenges and others, such as the prospect of an “America First” foreign policy under Donald Trump, the instabilities induced by climate crisis, and the persistent threat of digital disinformation, which poses a grave danger to the informed citizenry essential for a thriving democracy.
Confirmed speakers include Jim Cloos (Egmont Institute; Secretary General, TEPSA; former Director General, EU Council), Sophie Pornschlegel (Europe Jacques Delors), and Eddy Wax (Politico Europe).
The event will start at 18h30 with a drinks reception at 19h45. Please register via Eventbrite.
