Yesterday, the public international conference of the First Conclave gathered leaders from outside the EU to share their perspectives on the EU. The Conclave begins by evaluating Europe’s position and role in the world, an outside-in approach needed for identifying the challenges Europeans face.
🌍 Session n°1: Geopolitics, Trade, and Enlargement
🇫🇷 Philippe Étienne, Ambassador of France in Germany (2013-2017) and the USA (2019-2023), former diplomatic adviser to the French President of the Republic, opened the first session. « The future of the EU cannot be envisioned without listening to our allies and partners, » he said.
🇷🇸 Maja Piscevic, Vice President, East West Institute, and Fellow at the Atlantic Council, raised that « enlargement is a geopolitical investment in European security. To move forward, we must demonstrate the benefits to citizens. Amidst geopolitical insecurity, Russia’s leverage in the Balkans could diminish. The European Union holds the potential for peace in the region. Promises made to the Western Balkans should not remain unfulfilled; their eagerness to join the EU persists, yet it may not last forever. »
🇺🇸 Anthony Gardner, Former Ambassador to the EU made it clear: « for the US, and this is a shared opinion on both sides of the Congress, our relationship will revolve around the following: the EU is either with us to address the challenges posed by China or the EU is irrelevant. »
🇧🇷 Pedro Miguel Da Costa e Silva, Ambassador to the European Union, stressed: « We aspire to have the EU as a partner of values, a collaborator skilled in consensus-building. »
🇪🇺 Session n°2 : Democracy, Insecurity and Migration
🇳🇱 Aart de Geus, Former Minister of Social Affairs of The Netherlands and OECD Deputy Secretary, then introduced the second session. « The sentiment in some European countries may not favour migration, but it is a challenge that should be managed in a fair way, » he insisted.
🇮🇳 Trisha Shetty, President, Steering Committee, Paris Peace Forum stressed: « Europe is the world’s largest democracy but democracy means recognizing everyone’s autonomy and sovereignty. Let the EU view Indians not just as customers but as citizens deserving their rights. The exchanges with India must continue but within a framework of democratic fair play. »
🇸🇳 Rukia Bakari, Senior Program Officer, Gorée Institute reminded: « The EU is often perceived as old-fashioned and paternalistic by Africa. It’s time for a change in approach and attitude, fostering a partnership of equality. »
💼 “Wrap up call” by business, by Jean-François van Boxmeer, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Vodafone, and Chair of the European Round Table of Industrialists (ERT)
📊 Industrial Dynamics: « Things are really not good. In the year 2000, China accounted for 5% of the global industrial output, while the USA and the EU held steady at around 20% and 21%, respectively. Fast forward to 2023, and we witness a profound transformation: Europe’s share has dwindled to 14.5%, the USA at 16.5%, while China has surged ahead. »
💡 Critical Gaps: « No single market exists for energy or capital, highlighting that there is still much work to be done. The evolving dynamics demand a strategic and collaborative response. »
🗣️ Call for Action: « Europe, known for its welfare society, needs a solid industrial base to finance its aspirations. This underscores the urgency for concerted efforts to revitalize and strengthen our industrial capabilities. »
➡️ “Outlook 2040”
As we cast our gaze toward 2040, voices from diverse perspectives finally offered insights into the evolving landscape that will shape the future of the EU.
🇷🇴 Nadia Crisan, Executive Director of the Liechtenstein Institute at Princeton University, highlighted: « Our values are our greatest allure. The unfolding events in the United States next year will not only influence the coming four years but will leave a lasting imprint on the global stage. The power of our shared values becomes our beacon in times of change. »
🇵🇱 Jan Krzysztof Bielecki, Economist, former Prime Minister of Poland, warned: « The stakes in Ukraine are high. If Europe fails to prevail, Russia’s ambitions may extend further, posing a threat to the very values we hold dear. The outcome in Ukraine is pivotal for the preservation of our shared principles. »
🇸🇮 Stjepan Oreskovic, Co-owner of M+ Group, encourage: « In the face of global challenges, the need for effective communication becomes paramount. We must engage with one another, fostering dialogue not just about current issues but also about emerging technologies that will shape our collective future. »
🇦🇹 Oliver Röpke, President of the European Economic and Social Committee, asked: « As we navigate the complexities of the future, defining a common ground for democracy is imperative. Do we still share the same concept of democracy within the EU? Inclusiveness is key; we cannot compromise on fundamental rights. Let’s engage in discussions about forging a social union and finding common ground to ensure a resilient and inclusive democratic foundation. »
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