Strengthening European democracy was high on the list of priorities for the European Commission following its election at the end of 2019, particularly following the departure of the UK in early 2020. Six months later, the world has been plunged into an unprecedented crisis which threatens the future of the eurozone, creating huge economic divisions. The COVID-19 pandemic has been described as a ‘moment of truth’ for the EU with many fearing a renewed populist backlash unless it can take a bold step in addressing a multitude of economic, political and health issues.
In the context of ongoing Brexit negotiations, and the likely impact on the eurozone economy linked to the global health crisis, this session will examine the future of the EU. With remaining uncertainty about the form that Brexit will take, what are the long-term implications for both the UK’s and the EU’s prosperity, security and international roles? Is the current crisis creating new problems for EU leaders or merely highlighting existing tensions between member states? And can the proposed fund to aid recovery from the pandemic, ‘Next Generation EU’, rally the EU’s member countries to act in solidarity or will the plan be viewed as too ambitious?
This event is only open to Chatham House Partners and Major Corporate Members as well as selected giving circles of Chatham House. If you would like to attend, please RSVP to [email protected].
Participants
Dr Norbert Röttgen, Chairman, Foreign Affairs Committee, Deutscher Bundestag; Candidate for CDU Party Leadership
Chair: Dr Robin Niblett CMG, Director and Chief Executive, Chatham House
