Event Recap:
European Perspectives: Challenges and Challengers - A discussion with Edouard Philippe and Friedrich Merz
In November 2024, ESCP Business School's Berlin campus was honoured to host a dialogue between prominent politicians Friedrich Merz and Edouard Philippe to address Europe's current challenges and how these could shape the future.
Moderated by Jürgen Kaube, editor of the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ), a small group of 80 guests, including the French Tech Berlin community, ESCP students and alumni, listened and participated in the conversation "European Perspectives: Challenges and Challengers". The event emphasized the critical role of Franco-German collaboration in fostering European stability, particularly amid growing divergences on energy policies and defense.
The panelists highlighted the historical evolution of Franco-German relations, from rivalry to collaboration, showcasing it as a model for broader European unity. They also identified key issues facing Europe today, including economic concerns, political disillusionment, and differing national priorities. These challenges, compounded by global competition from powers like the US and China, emphasized the need for more cohesive strategies.
Youth engagement and societal participation were highlighted as essential for combatting polarization and building a progressive Europe, for instance Initiatives such as the Erasmus programme.
Following the panel discussion, the event opened up a Q&A session for the audience. Entrepreneurs raised concerns about Europe's risk-averse business culture and limited funding opportunities compared to the US and Asia. In response, panelists highlighted the need for a cultural shift toward embracing risk and failure to drive innovation.
On energy policy, questions focused on its impact on industry competitiveness. Philippe and Merz both stressed collaboration among EU nations to diversify energy sources, improve grids, and address high energy costs, crucial for Europe’s industrial and technological future. Concluding on an optimistic note, both reinforced the importance of dialogue, shared responsibility, and collaboration to shape a resilient and united Europe in the face of common challenges,
Thank you to all speakers, organisers, and participants for making this event a resounding success!
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