The new European Commission has taken shape during a period of significant geopolitical unrest. In this Forum, our authors look at some of the priorities for the European Commission for 2024-2029 and beyond. How can the EU prepare itself for the uncertainty of a possible global trade war? What should the EU do about its Eastern Neighborhood expansion plans that have continued to stall? How can industrial policy help to create a single market for defence goods? What should be the priorities of the Commission with regards to the financial sector? This Forum examines these questions deeply and offers recommendations.

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In the current landscape of significant technological, economic and geopolitical shifts, Europe needs a forward-looking industrial policy to boost innovation, productivity, quality job creation, sustainability and growth. However, simultaneous crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, have resulted in supply chain strains, rising energy prices and general uncertainty. Still, challenges can create opportunities for companies and citizens – if they are addressed properly. This Forum considers the priorities for the future of European industrial policy that are critical for the EU’s economic security.

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Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine has forced Europe to confront its shortcomings with regard to providing its own security and to reconsider its reliance on the United States, which may be – under a potential Trump administration – much less supportive. This Forum focuses on what needs to be done now to address Europe’s security concerns and guarantee stability for the foreseeable future. Is meeting NATO spending targets enough to support European defence? What would it take to make Europe more self-sufficient? How does Europe protect itself against malicious cyberattacks? And what role do women specifically play in supporting defence efforts and future reconstruction in Ukraine?

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After decades marked by struggles to combat high unemployment, today’s main challenge is labour market shortages. Since the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and despite the economic slowdown driven by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, EU labour markets have demonstrated remarkable resilience. Employment reached a record high in 2022 and the trend is expected to continue. Most companies, in the EU and beyond, are now struggling to fill vacancies. Labour and skill shortages in several sectors are the new problems to overcome. What are the reasons behind these shortages? Are these only temporary issues?

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In June 2024, EU citizens will vote in the European Parliament elections – two years into Russia’s war in Ukraine and on European values, after the COVID-19 pandemic and the finalisation of Brexit, and with the possibility of Donald Trump winning the US presidential election later this year. In a turbulent geopolitical environment, the European Parliament elections will reshape the political landscape in Brussels, where traditional parties are being challenged and an increasing tilt towards right-wing governance is unmistakable. In the lead-up to the elections, this Forum focuses on some of the issues that will take centre stage for voters and define the next phase of European politics.

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