The European Union is navigating an increasingly complex global landscape. With shifting geopolitical dynamics and growing security concerns, the question arises: can the EU assert itself as a unified geopolitical force, or will internal divisions limit its influence on the world stage? At such a “Hamiltonian moment”, the EU must carefully consider its next steps to find its place alongside global superpowers such as China and the United States.  

Our host, Tom Parker, is joined by Karel Lannoo, CEO of CEPS. Together, they discuss the challenges of European unity, the impact of geopolitical tensions, and the urgent need for a stronger, more cohesive EU strategy on security, trade, and global influence.  

For further reading on CEPS’ policy research and Karel Lannoo’s work on European governance, financial regulation, and institutional reforms, follow this link.  

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Despite being a large market and having a strong talent pool, Europe fails to mobilise the necessary funds to fuel European innovation. Europe's strict regulations, and a lack of integration among national research ecosystems have hampered the continent’s innovativeness.  

Our host, Tom Parker, is joined by Pierre-Alexandre Balland, chief data scientist at CEPS and an expert in complex economic systems, artificial intelligence, and blockchain. Together, they explore how Europe can unlock funding for innovation and strengthen its startup ecosystem. 

For further reading on CEPS policy research and Pierre-Alexandre Balland’s work, follow this link. 

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Reinforcing Europe's leadership in research and innovation is critical, especially as global competition intensifies. Europe needs to remain attractive for young researchers and find ways to retain talent while also accelerating innovation by providing researchers with what they need most. 

Our host Tom Parker is joined by Manuel Heitor, former Portuguese Minister for Science, Technology, and Higher Education. Together they discuss what measures are necessary for Europe’s R&D ecosystem.  

For more information on Manuel Heitor, visit this link. 

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While inequalities have always existed, recent decades have seen greater polarization, with certain regions attracting investment, talent, and jobs, while others have been left behind. This economic stagnation limits overall growth but also fuels discontent and political instability among affected citizens.  

Host Tom Parker is joined by Andrés Rodríguez-Pose, Professor of Economic Geography at the London School of Economics and an expert in regional development. Together, they discuss the roots of regional disparities, the role of neglected regions in shaping Europe's future, and how innovation can drive economic renewal in unexpected places. 

For more information on Andrés Rodríguez-Pose and his work, visit this link. 

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The new American administration has shaken the geopolitical stage with a strong inward-focused policy, with tariffs being a cornerstone of this strategy. As a result, the sudden shift in policy has had significant impact on global trade and international organisations with consequences on the global economy but also a possible slowdown in innovation.  

Our host Tom Parker is joined by Laura Tyson, an economist and senior advisor at RockCreek, who shares insights into the policies of the United States and how they differ from Europe. 

For more information on Laura Tyson and her work, visit this link. 

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Reaching the decarbonisation objectives that the EU set for itself by 2050 is impossible. However, Europe has achieved the most ambitious policy mix on circular economy in the world, especially when it comes to encompassing the entire life cycle of our products.  Europe has been making progress, but important challenges still need to be tackled to achieve a full circular economy. 

Our host Tom Parker is joined by Vasileios Rizos, Senior Researcher Fellow at CEPS, Head of the Energy, Resources and Climate Change Unit and Head of Sustainable Resources and Circular Economy at CEPS. His primary research includes conditions for achieving a resource-efficient and low-carbon economy. Together, they talk recycling and waste management. 

For more information on Vasileios Rizos and the work of CEPS, visit this link. 

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The CEPS Ideas Lab is the largest policy event by an Independent Think Tank in Brussels. The objective of Ideas Lab is to provide a high-level intellectual forum for exchanges concerning a wide range of current and pressing issues faced by the EU. The discussions are open, insightful and impactful, with the active involvement of policymakers, researchers and representatives from industries and civil society. This year, stakeholders came together to discuss current challenges Europe is facing such as the war in Ukraine, pending trade tariffs, rising security threats and Europe´s need to become more competitive and catch up in tech innovation. Europe has the potential to lead in key areas, but it will take an ambitious and coordinated effort to achieve this outcome.  

In this episode our host, Tom Parker, is joined by Andrea Renda, Director of Research at CEPS, to discuss the importance of collaboration among European innovation hubs, the need for a unified strategy, and the recent shift in policy towards European competitiveness, sovereignty, and security.  

For further reading on Andrea Renda’s work and CEPS’ policy research, follow this link.  

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Europe is at a crucial juncture. The green and digital transition provides a significant opportunity for global leadership. However, we must tackle challenges like skills shortages, overregulation, and dependence on established players. The central question is whether to focus on competitiveness at any cost or to pursue thoughtful innovation. Just as other great powers have established their strategies, Europe now has the chance to define its own path forward. 

Our host, Tom Parker, is joined by Sandrine Dixson-Declève, Honourary president of the Club of Rome and an expert in sustainability and energy transitions. Together, they discuss Europe's role in global competition. 

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When it comes to AI, the EU's regulatory approach prioritises ethical frameworks, transparency, and citizen protection. This contrasts sharply with the US and China, where innovation often takes precedence over strict oversight. While Europe's values-driven model aims to build trust in AI technologies, concerns remain about whether it can foster competitiveness at the same pace as less regulated markets.   

Joining host Tom Parker is Eva Maydell, Member of the European Parliament, Vice-Chair of the Delegation for Relations with the US and Deputy Spokesperson of the group in the ITRE Committee and a key figure in EU digital policy. Together, they discuss Europe's role in shaping global AI standards, the balance between regulation and innovation, and how the EU can bridge the gap between emerging technologies and economic growth.  

For further reading on CEPS’ research on AI regulation and digital innovation, follow this link.  

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Global trade is facing unprecedented challenges, from rising protectionism and geopolitical tensions to weak enforcement of international trade rules. While the EU remains committed to free trade, it must also navigate shifts in U.S. policy, a growing influence of China, and the urgent need for sustainability. To promote free trade and to maintain its influence in the global trading system, the EU must strengthen partnerships with emerging economies, uphold global trade norms, and respond to a volatile U.S. trade stance in a confident manner.  

Joining host Tom Parker is Cecilia Malmström, former EU Commissioner for Trade, who examines the future of international trade, the importance of like-minded coalitions, and how the EU can promote fair and sustainable trade policies.  

For further reading on CEPS’ research on EU trade policy, follow this link.  

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