CEPS in focus
CEPS in focus is a podcast series that provides concise and insightful analyses of the latest EU policy developments. Each episode features expert commentaries and analyses, bringing the depth of CEPS research to listeners. The podcast is hosted on Acast.
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52. The EU-US trade deal promises temporary relief but longer-term pain
The EU-US trade deal promises temporary relief but longer-term painBy Cinzia AlcidiAfter months of uncertainty and escalating rhetoric, a new EU-US trade deal has finally been announced. Under the deal, a 15% US tariff will apply to most EU imports, including cars, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors. This is higher than the 10% rate applied to most imports from the EU since April, but lower than t
51. Going beyond the ‘EuroStack’ could help the EU build a truly global (open) Science Stack
Going beyond the ‘EuroStack’ could help the EU build a truly global (open) Science StackBy Stefaan VerhulstEurope is facing a defining moment in its approach to science, research and innovation. As geopolitical tensions mount and investment in dual-use technologies surges, the EU is being called to reimagine its research policy – not just for strategic autonomy but for lasting societal relevance a
50. The EU’s strategic compromises are blinding it to the ongoing fight for democracy in Serbia
The EU’s strategic compromises are blinding it to the ongoing fight for democracy in SerbiaBy Antigona ImeriSince November 2024, Serbia has experienced a huge wave of anti-government protests. As students and citizens continue to pump up the situation by doubling down on their demands, the government’s intimidation attempts continues. By imprisoning students and activists, and cutting professors’
49. This week’s motion of censure in the European Parliament was a proxy war
This week’s motion of censure in the European Parliament was a proxy warBy Sophia RussackThis week’s motion of censure against President Ursula von der Leyen’s Commission was not about vaccines but rather a proxy war over the emerging centre-to-far-right alliances in the European Parliament (EP), with the far right exploiting the tool to destabilise and divide. Many MEPs —particularly fr
48. Why the EU needs a Special Representative for Global Health
Why the EU needs a Special Representative for Global HealthBy Louise Bengtsson and Hampus HolmerWhen the Council conclusions on the Global Health Strategy – and disclaimer, one of us helped draft those conclusions – were adopted by ministers in January 2024, it marked a moment of real ambition. For the first time in over a decade, EU Member States endorsed a comprehensive vision for Europe’s role
47. For the euro to go global, the EU must match its ambition with real action
For the euro to go global, the EU must match its ambition with real actionBy Cinzia AlcidiIn recent weeks, EU leaders have voiced their support for strengthening the euro’s global role. Christine Lagarde has called for a ‘global euro’ moment and recent Council conclusions affirm the EU’s commitment to reinforcing the euro as both a reserve and transaction currency.Shifting global dynamics, accompa
46. The EU is at a crossroads – the Global Gateway can still lead the way forward
The EU is at a crossroads – the Global Gateway can still lead the way forwardBy Ceren ErgencThe second Trump administration has intensified the global reshuffling of geoeconomic alliances following China’s phenomenal industrial growth and its near domination of new technology markets. While it increasingly feels like a new superpower tussle, middle powers and developing countries can still choose
45. We have a case of sustainability reporting overload. The EU needs a smarter fix
We have a case of sustainability reporting overload. The EU needs a smarter fixBy Apostolos Thomadakis and J. Scott MarcusThe EU’s sustainability reporting rules urgently need to be recalibrated. What began as a bold legislative push to steer markets towards environmental and social goals is now showing signs of regulatory overreach. Companies, especially SMEs, are struggling to navigate three maj
44. EU integration policies are broken – the case of Afghanistani immigrants (especially women) proves this
EU integration policies are broken – the case of Afghanistani immigrants (especially women) proves thisBy Shagofah GhaforiKabul’s fall in August 2021 was a slow-motion tragedy. EU Member States opened their doors, then bureaucracy slammed them shut. Across the EU, highly-skilled Afghanistanis – especially many Afghanistani women – are unable to work or practice their professions: a former minister
43. The EU’s new International Digital Strategy offers a promising start – but how it’s implemented will determine its ultimate success
The EU’s new International Digital Strategy offers a promising start – but how it’s implemented will determine its ultimate success By Raquel Jorge Ricart and Diana SenczyszynOn 5 June, the European Commission and the EEAS published a Joint Communication that officially launched the EU’s new International Digital Strategy. This clearly shows how important digital diplomacy has become over the past
42. Could the EU and South Korea be any closer? Time to raise the bar in bilateral ties
Could the EU and South Korea be any closer? Time to raise the bar in bilateral tiesBy Fanny SauvignonSouth Korea began 2025 in deep political turmoil following the martial law crisis. Despite its gravity, the episode affirmed the country’s democratic resilience. In the early hours of 4 December 2024, the South Korean National Assembly had voted to lift the martial law that President Yoon
41. Stop ‘techwashing’ layoffs – and start co-designing the future of work
Stop ‘techwashing’ layoffs – and start co-designing the future of workBy Laura NurskiIn recent weeks, headlines have taken a sharp turn, with Anthropic’s CEO warning that AI could eliminate half of all entry-level white-collar jobs within five years. Business media echo the same worry: is AI replacing – or going to replace – new graduates?These statements tap into a growing sense that generative A
40. To unlock EU-Western Balkans energy investment, we first need accurate emissions data
To unlock EU-Western Balkans energy investment, we first need accurate emissions dataBy Christian Egenhofer and Damir DizdarevićThe EU is strongly committed to integrating the Western Balkans into its energy and climate frameworks as part of the enlargement process. It also provides financial support for the region’s transition to sustainable energy systems. The Instrument for Pre-Accession III, t
39. A new EuroMed Pact could reinvigorate EU-MENA relations
A new EuroMed Pact could reinvigorate EU-MENA relationsBy James MoranThe recent history of the EU’s relations in its ‘southern neighbourhood’ can hardly be called its finest hour. It has been preoccupied with defensive policies, notably the focus on controlling illegal migration, spurred by the far right’s growing support. Then there’s the rise of other world powers in the MENA region such as Chin
38. To retaliate or not to retaliate? Or three reasons why the EU shouldn’t react to US tariffs (at least for now)
To retaliate or not to retaliate? Or three reasons why the EU shouldn’t react to US tariffs (at least for now)By Cinzia AlcidiDonald Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ has delivered the highest tariff hike in nearly a century. If they’re implemented, the average US tariff rate will rise to 22.5%, around 11 percentage points higher compared to March. Trump has given the world just one week to absorb the news
37. Disk backup to the cloud is a gaping vulnerability in the EU’s security
Disk backup to the cloud is a gaping vulnerability in the EU’s securityBy J. Scott MarcusSuppose vast quantities of Europeans’ digital data were being sent every few days to a foreign power that has threatened military action against an EU Member State. How should the EU react?Oh, and that foreign power isn’t Russia or China – it’s the United States.We’re not talking about the data provided to onl
36. The EU’s competitiveness drive could turn quality jobs into a mirage
The EU’s competitiveness drive could turn quality jobs into a mirageBy Davide MonacoIn the wake of the Draghi report and the EU Competitiveness Compass, ‘competitiveness’ is again dominating debates about the present and future of EU economies and societies, despite being long criticised as an elusive concept or a dangerous (and wrong) obsession.This is hardly new. The search for competitiveness h
35. Europe’s retail payments are a success story – we need to keep it that way
Europe’s retail payments are a success story – we need to keep it that wayBy Judith Arnal, Fredrik Andersson and Beatriz PozoWe’re undergoing a global transformation marked by competition for resources, value chain shifts, geopolitical tensions, humanitarian crises, climate change and demographic challenges. This shifting landscape is forcing EU leaders and businesses to rethink their strategies.T
34. In the plutocratic age of ‘broligarchy’, democracy is in deep trouble – but there’s still hope
In the plutocratic age of ‘broligarchy’, democracy is in deep trouble – but there’s still hopeBy Julia PoczeThe democratic rule of law is badly deteriorating in many parts of the world and those responsible are hiding in plain sight. In fact, they’re not hiding at all, but they do pretend that their conduct supposedly benefits the public good instead of seriously harming it.A play on ‘oligarchy’,
33. With the US leaving the WHO, Europe must urgently increase its global leadership in health preparedness – not weaken it
With the US leaving the WHO, Europe must urgently increase its global leadership in health preparedness – not weaken itBy Alice OrlandiniFive years on, Covid-19 taught us the hard way, that health crises can turn our lives upside down overnight – forcing lockdowns, halting even the world’s strongest economies but, most importantly, killing millions. The pandemic exposed the weaknesses of the most
32. Minding the gender gap – a critical omission in the EU’s AMR response
Minding the gender gap – a critical omission in the EU’s AMR responseBy Cosima LenzGender is largely absent from the EU’s antimicrobial resistance (AMR) policies and strategies. Yet AMR is a major global health threat. It happens when microbes (bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites) stop responding to medication, making infections harder to treat, and increasing the risk of severe illness and dea
31. The fight for Georgia is still a fight for Europe
The fight for Georgia is still a fight for Europe By Tinatin AkhvledianiGeorgia is no stranger to political turmoil but the country now finds itself at a perilous tipping point. Georgians are known for taking to the streets, waving EU flags with unmatched passion and fighting for their European future.But this time, with mounting geopolitical tensions and a ruling party desperate to cling to power
30. Skills aren’t your plug-and-play solution for inclusive competitiveness
Skills aren’t your plug-and-play solution for inclusive competitivenessBy Laura Nurski Skills have become a central pillar in policy discussions on the future of work. Since the 2000 Lisbon Strategy, the EU has gradually shifted from focusing on formal education and qualifications – as indicators of skill bundles – to a greater emphasis on skills as individual units that can be independently acqui
29. The EU’s sustainability rollback is a retreat disguised as simplification
The EU’s sustainability rollback is a retreat disguised as simplificationBy Apostolos ThomadakisThe European Commission’s ‘Simplification Omnibus’ proposal, unveiled on 26 February, was presented as a necessary step to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses and enhance European competitiveness. By amending key sustainability directives – including the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directi
28. With a new German government incoming, the implications for Europe are substantial
With a new German government incoming, the implications for Europe are substantialBy Sophie Pornschlegel and Sophia RussackGermany went to the polls last Sunday and the conservative CDU came first, followed by the far-right AfD. Upcoming coalition negotiations will ultimately determine the next government’s composition, but CDU leader Friedrich Merz will likely become the next Chancellor, with the
27. The Italy v ICC row exposes deep-rooted hypocrisy in EU migration policy
The Italy v ICC row exposes deep-rooted hypocrisy in EU migration policy By Davide Colombi The Italian government’s recent refusal to comply with an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant exposes deep-rooted hypocrisy in EU migration policy. While claiming to fight ‘human trafficking’, the Italian government has shielded a high-ranking Libyan official accused of crimes against humanity
26. Europe’s hidden AI champions are vital in its quest to becoming a global tech leader
Europe’s hidden AI champions are vital in its quest to becoming a global tech leaderBy Robert Praas and Pierre-Alexandre BallandZooming out from the buzz around DeepSeek, it’s clear the AI game is rapidly changing. The usual big tech players no longer have the playing field to themselves. During the last few weeks, a wave of impressive, mostly open-source AI models have hit the scene, many created
25. Europe is taking a pragmatic approach to Syria. Its origins lie in Kabul
Europe is taking a pragmatic approach to Syria. Its origins lie in KabulBy Loqman RadpeyEurope’s engagement with the new Syrian leadership has been notably swift, yet it still refuses to recognise the Taliban. On 19 December 2024, the European Council issued guidelines for recognising Syria’s transitional government, tying it to respect for ‘human rights, including women’s rights, non-sectarian go
24. Get over the DeepSeek Panic – it might actually be a good thing
Get over the DeepSeek Panic – it might actually be a good thingBy Robert Praas and Pierre-Alexandre BallandThe release of the freely available and surprisingly capable language model DeepSeek R-1 shocked the world, made it question the growing demand for computer chips and led the mighty NASDAQ to dive on Monday. Here’s a Chinese open-source project matching OpenAI’s capabilities – something we we
23. The EU must stay on course and be much more assertive, both at home and abroad
The EU must stay on course and be much more assertive, both at home and abroadBy Karel LannooThe EU should stick to its course, pursue the Green Deal and complete the single market. It needs to demonstrate its resolve and act united as a new – potentially hostile – US administration rolls in and shakes up the foundations of transatlantic cooperation and the world order. But it must also stand firm
22. Stargate and the fight for AI supremacy – this is Europe’s wake-up call
Stargate and the fight for AI supremacy – this is Europe’s wake-up call By Andrea Renda and Pierre-Alexandre BallandThe announcement of the USD 500 billion US Stargate Project marks a bold leap into the future for AI. Announced with great fanfare at the White House by President Trump, flanked by the CEOs of OpenAI, SoftBank and Oracle, the initiative aims to build the most advanced AI infrastructu
21. These are the necessary conditions to get European boots on the ground in Ukraine
These are the necessary conditions to get European boots on the ground in UkraineBy Steven BlockmansSince the US Presidential election there’s been a debate in Europe over a possible ceasefire agreement and the security guarantees Ukraine needs to deter Russia from resuming hostilities. A European ground operation in Ukraine is a welcome idea but only if it can be backed up by the US. This means c
20. Why AI World is providing the key insights that are shaping the AI revolution
Why AI World is providing the key insights that are shaping the AI revolutionBy Andrea Renda and Pierre-Alexandre BallandWe live in a complex world, rich with data and insights, where finding our way is becoming increasingly challenging. As Herbert Simon wrote back in the 1950s, ‘a wealth of information creates a poverty of attention’. And when there’s a dearth of attention, knowing where to look
19. Yes, COP29 was too little, too late. But it’s a reality we must accept – at least for now
Yes, COP29 was too little, too late. But it’s a reality we must accept – at least for nowBy Irina Kustova, Christian Dietz and Renske van HoofCOP29 left many disappointed, seen by many as a choice between failure and disaster. Fair criticism but the Paris Agreement is still delivering as it was designed to do – namely a bottom-up, consensus-driven framework.While COP29 was mainly seen as a steppin
18. All chill, no grill – and other key takeaways from the 2024 Commission confirmation hearings
All chill, no grill – and other key takeaways from the 2024 Commission confirmation hearingsBy Sophia RussackThe European Parliament (EP) hearings for the new Commissioners are now over. After some last-minute drama and a little delay, the EP has greenlit all candidates – for the first time in 20 years.In theory, the confirmation hearings are a great instrument for scrutinising the incoming Commis
17. Trump’s back – now the EU must step up its game
Trump’s back – now the EU must step up its gameBy J. Scott MarcusThe Free World that we knew has been transformed overnight and now we in the EU must deal with the world as it is. That the United States has decisively chosen to be led by a man who is a convicted felon, who lies far more often than he tells the truth and who tried to steal the 2020 election by violent means – these might be issues
16. From a Capital Markets Union towards a robust Savings and Investment Union
From a Capital Markets Union towards a robust Savings and Investment UnionBy Karel Lannoo, Jesper Berg and Apostolos ThomadakisSustaining the current progress towards a Capital Markets Union (CMU) requires both strong political commitment and high prioritisation. While integration is often cited as a key objective, the more fundamental issue for EU capital markets is their limited depth rather tha
15. The cordon sanitaire is quietly fraying in the European Parliament
The cordon sanitaire is quietly fraying in the European ParliamentBy Sophia RussackWhile in some EU Member States, there is still a firewall against the far right, at the European level, cooperation between conservatives and the far right is taking place without much fuss. This is already apparent in the way the hearings of the designated Commissioners are being organised in the European Parliamen
14. Did we just witness Georgia go from dream to nightmare?
Did we just witness Georgia go from dream to nightmare?By Tinatin AkhvledianiOn 26 October, Georgians went to the polls in a critical parliamentary election that President Salome Zourabichvili described as a referendum on the country’s European future. It is a future that Georgians have fervently supported through countless rallies and protests in recent years against the pro-Kremlin drift of the
13. The new European Commission must deliver for Europe’s future – but excessively emphasising ‘competitiveness’ could hinder this
The new European Commission must deliver for Europe’s future – but excessively emphasising ‘competitiveness’ could hinder thisBy Karel LannooTackling Europe’s economic decline, preparing and adapting for a new wave of enlargement and defending Europe’s geopolitical position… the new European Commission will definitely need to deliver. The past five years have shown that it can prepare and react wh
12. Following July’s CrowdStrike outage, this is how we can avoid the next ‘Blue Friday’
Following July’s CrowdStrike outage, this is how we can avoid the next ‘Blue Friday’By Lorenzo PupilloOn 19 July, the world experienced ‘Blue Friday’ when 8.5 million PC screens worldwide were hit by the infamous Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), a critical error message displayed by Microsoft Windows when the system encounters a serious issue that it cannot recover from.This unprecedented outage was t
11. A war without end – must the EU remain a bystander in the Middle East?
A war without end – must the EU remain a bystander in the Middle East?By James MoranWith Israel on the warpath around the region, despite international efforts to shift the conflicts from the battlefield to the negotiation table, there are growing fears about the consequences for the wider world, including in the EU.Whether the US can rein in Israel’s military machine is an open question. The reco
10. A ‘nearly’ gender-balanced Commission isn’t good enough. It’s actually an ominous omen for advancing gender equality in the EU
A ‘nearly’ gender-balanced Commission isn’t good enough. It’s actually an ominous omen for advancing gender equality in the EUBy Marta Dell’AquilaDuring these frantic days at the beginning of a new mandate, at a time when the new College of Commissioners is being formed, Ursula von der Leyen’s commitment to achieve full gender balance – shown as being important to her since the very beginning of h
9. Why we need to rewire Europe’s financial sector – to end fragmentation and bolster integration
Why we need to rewire Europe’s financial sector – to end fragmentation and bolster integrationBy Apostolos ThomadakisIf Europe wants to stay ahead of the curve and be able to follow – and eventually lead – its international counterparts, the new European Commission should have a focused agenda that balances regulatory simplicity with forward-looking strategies. This is particularly the case in cap
8. The EU according to Draghi – as competitive as needed, as sustainable as possible
The EU according to Draghi – as competitive as needed, as sustainable as possibleBy Andrea RendaLanding on Ursula von der Leyen’s desk just as she’s putting together the new College of Commissioners, the long-awaited report by Mario Draghi on ‘the future of European competitiveness’ totals almost 400 pages collaboratively drafted by two (invisible) teams in Brussels and Rome.Draghi‘s opus magnum d
7. Why it’s businesses (and not the European Commission) that need to ensure sustainable supply chains
Why it’s businesses (and not the European Commission) that need to ensure sustainable supply chainsBy Katharina WeberIt’s the same old story – when push comes to shove, no one wants to pay, especially for sustainability. We want more sustainable practices, production and supply chains but there are few who are willing to actually open their wallets for such a cause.In the last few weeks several ac
6. With the Harris-Trump battle in full swing, the EU must take the future of the transatlantic relationship into its own hands
With the Harris-Trump battle in full swing, the EU must take the future of the transatlantic relationship into its own handsBy Camille Ford and Dylan Macchiarini CrossonAfter last week’s Democratic National Convention (DNC), Europeans may start studying the polling data coming out of rural Pennsylvania or Michigan to gauge their fate. While recent polling suggests President Biden’s decision to pas
5. Venezuela’s election shows that technology can be democracy’s ally – and not only an enemy
Venezuela’s election shows that technology can be democracy’s ally – and not only an enemyBy Andrea RendaDigital technology is often accused of enabling surveillance and abuse. From China’s Big Brother social credit system to Silicon Valley’s surveillance capitalism, experts have warned of the enormous power that governments and large platforms can gain by controlling online content. Yet it would
4. How to future-proof NATO’s defence innovation and EDT strategy
How to future-proof NATO’s defence innovation and EDT strategyBy Raluca CsernatoniDeveloping disruptive ways of warfare and advanced technological capabilities is a critical function for any military organisation, including NATO. Yet relying exclusively on technological superiority and novel technologies to sustain outdated ways of fighting has significant drawbacks.That is why understanding all t
3. Labour has moved first to reset the EU-UK relationship – Brussels needs to sit up and listen
Labour has moved first to reset the EU-UK relationship – Brussels needs to sit up and listenBy Daniel Cassidy-DeketelaereLabour’s stonking general election victory on 4 July could raise hopes on both sides of the Channel that the UK may now seek to reverse at least some aspects of Boris Johnson’s hard Brexit. Alas, new prime minister Sir Keir Starmer won’t be clambering for closer (re)integration
2. Blood, toil, tears and sweat: The European Political Community’s summit in the UK
Blood, toil, tears and sweat: the European Political Community’s summit in the UKBy Dylan Macchiarini Crosson and Steven BlockmansThe European Political Community (EPC) meets on 18 July for the fourth time. Hosted by the UK at Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, echoes of his ‘blood, toil, tears and sweat’ speech in May 1940 cannot be ignored. Facing an existential battle on the
1. Europe can produce its own tech giants — here’s how
Europe can produce its own tech giants — here’s howBy J. Scott MarcusWhy does the EU fail to produce its own Google, Amazon or Facebook? Is Europe lacking entrepreneurship, technical savvy or simply imagination? Contrary to what many think, the EU does even better than the US at creating high-tech start-ups; however, many European firms whither on the vine due to a lack of finance.Yet a simple sol
