Voices from CEPS Ideas Lab

  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 expe...

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, Technol...

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 Econom...

  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 i...

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.   ...

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 civ...

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 strat...

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 m...

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...

As the U.S. shifts its strategic focus away from Europe and signals a potential disengagement from NATO, Europe faces increasing security risks. With Russia’s aggression continuing and European defence spending lagging, the question is whether the EU is prepared to defend itself and how leaders should respond to growing transatlantic uncertainty.   Joining host Tom Parker is Steven Block...

EU Enlargement and Security Challenges   As the EU has re-energised its enlargement policy, countries such as Ukraine and Moldova have made rapid progress towards EU integration. However, concerns remain about the EU’s ability to provide security guarantees to candidate countries. Increased defence cooperation, military spending and deeper collaboration with the UK and other European allies c...

The enlargement of the European Union has traditionally been guided by a commitment to stability, democracy, and economic integration. In the current geopolitical landscape, however, additional complexities and have emerged. With Ukraine, Moldova, and other candidates seeking membership, the EU must navigate security concerns, economic preparedness, and external pressures from disruptive forces. T...