Pivotal moment for Europe: Central European proposals for the next EU leadership: Executive Summary

GLOBSEC has released a pivotal report on the European Union’s current state and future trajectory amidst multiple crises. Based on consultations with policymakers, business leaders, and experts from Central and Eastern European countries (including Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and more), GLOBSEC put forward a set of ideas that reflect CEE perspectives on the ideal priorities for Europe’s incoming leadership.  The report focuses on ideas how to enhance European competitiveness, security, and global influence. It highlights the region’s evolving influence following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and the pressing need for a cohesive, resilient, and globally competitive Europe.

Historically, the EU has always learned from crisis and managed to emerge out of them stronger. However, it would be foolhardy for the EU to assume that this will be the same. Russia’s aggression and the instability of the postwar liberal order demand a fight to preserve the EU’s political and economic model. Technological advancements and interconnectedness, while beneficial, also increase vulnerability to security threats and authoritarianism. This poses significant challenges for policymakers dealing with both internal and external threats.

The European Parliament elections in June 2024 set the political parameters for Europe's new leadership. They also made it clear that in some countries, particularly France and Germany, domestic political developments could hinder their ability to consistently and effectively lead on shared European priorities at the speed required. Additionally, uncertainty surrounding the US elections affects Europe's relationship with its key ally. In this context, Central and Eastern European countries are poised to play a crucial role in shaping a positive agenda for Europe.

The report overarching priorities: A competitive Europe: advocating for cohesive economy with a robust technological base to maintain global relevance. A secure and resilient Europe: emphasizing the need for enhanced security and defence capabilities within the EU. A global Europe: leveraging Europe’s collective power on the global stage.

The findings reflect the strategic importance of Central and Eastern Europe in the broader European integration project, highlighting the region’s potential to significantly influence EU policy and leadership amidst transformative geopolitical and technological shifts. The publication is essential for understanding the strategic environment facing Europe and the critical steps needed to safeguard and advance the European project.

Read the executive summary below and the full report here.