Address

The European agenda and UK–EU relations: a French perspective on a changing world

How France views the current state of European affairs and the next phase of cooperation between the EU and the UK under the new Burnham government.

Event date and time: 24 September 2026 — 11:30 TO 12:30 BST

Event location: Hybrid — Chatham House and Online

As part of the UK in the World Programme’s new UK–EU series, join France’s Minister for Europe, Benjamin Haddad to examine the EU agenda and the future of UK–EU relations. The discussion will explore how Europe can strengthen cooperation, security and competitiveness in a changing geopolitical environment.

This event will discuss:

  • What is France’s perspective on the European agenda?
  • How does the EU-UK relation fit into that agenda?
  • What opportunities exist to deepen UK–EU cooperation a decade after Brexit?
  • How does France view the future of the relationship between London and Brussels
  • What major political, economic and security challenges remain?
  • How can the UK and EU work more closely on European security and defence?
  • What role can France and the UK play in strengthening Europe’s competitiveness and influence?
  • What outcomes are realistic in the near term for UK–EU relations?
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Event format and who can attend

Addresses include major policy speeches and Q&As with heads of state, high-profile commentators, academics and policymakers. They are held in our Joseph Gaggero Hall and on the record.

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