The Bruegel Debate, titled “Economic Choices for Europe: EU Leadership Debate 2024,” was held on May 21, 2024, in Brussels, gathering leading candidates from key European parties for an in-depth discussion on the critical economic issues set to shape Europe’s future. Organized by Bruegel in partnership with the Financial Times, this debate provided a platform for candidates to elaborate on their respective economic policies and visions.
The debate saw participation from several notable figures including:
– Sandro Gozi, Lead candidate of Renew Europe Now
– Ursula von der Leyen, Lead candidate of The European People’s Party
– Nicolas Schmit, Lead candidate of the Party of European Socialists
– Anders Vistisen, Lead candidate of the Identity and Democracy Party
– Maria Demertzis, Bruegel Senior Fellow who chaired the event alongside Henry Foy, Brussels Bureau Chief of the Financial Times.
The agenda of the debate was meticulously structured to cover a broad range of significant economic topics:
Competitiveness and the Single Market: Discussions here centered around strategies to enhance the EU’s competitiveness within the global market, focusing on reforms and policy measures required to fortify the Single Market.
Economic Security: This session addressed the economic vulnerabilities and strategies to bolster the EU’s security from economic disruptions, covering aspects such as supply chain robustness and trade policy adjustments.
The EU Budget: Candidates debated on the optimal allocation and management of the EU budget, weighing the priorities and trade-offs necessary to meet economic and developmental goals.
This debate was pivotal as it occurred against the backdrop of numerous economic challenges and opportunities facing the EU. Candidates laid out diverse perspectives and solutions for Europe’s economic future. For instance, discussions on enhancing the Single Market were seen as critical for driving competitiveness and innovation. The debate also highlighted the importance of economic security in the face of global uncertainties and geopolitical risks.
The Bruegel Debate on “Economic Choices for Europe” was an essential milestone in the run-up to the 2024 European elections, providing a key platform for candidates to present and debate their economic visions. This not only engaged policymakers but also the broader public, ensuring that economic priorities and challenges were put at the forefront of the electoral agenda. The collaborative effort by Bruegel and the Financial Times in hosting this debate underscores the critical role of informed public discourse in shaping the future of the EU.
Related member(s)
Sandro
Gozi
Secretary General
France
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