Freedom or Serfdom - Fateful Years ahead for Europe

The event will be opened by Henning Vöpel, Member of the Executive Board of the cep. He believes that Europe's position in the world is at risk and calls on the old continent to change course. "War has returned to Europe as a political tool, the rules-based order is threatened by protectionism and isolationism, new technologies and climate change are transforming the markets and value chains of the future," says Vöpel. For the European Union, this turning point means a profound crisis of order, as the former guarantors of peace, freedom and prosperity lose their effectiveness. "Europe's sovereignty and competitiveness need to be fundamentally renewed. However, the EU's ability to act is limited by its treaties and special governance," warns the CEP executive.

According to Vöpel, the current regulatory approach and the strong domestic focus are not enough to meet the global challenges. The global competition between systems is about defence, technological leadership and innovation. "There are enormous deficits in all three areas," says Vöpel.

The series will continue Tuesdays in the weeks leading up to the European elections. Key topics include climate, energy and transport, digitalisation and new technologies, and internal and financial markets. In addition to the German assessments, the cep network will also provide contributions from France and Italy.