Topics

Stick To Science: “Horizon Europe” enables research projects that would be impossible without multilateral collaboration, through a stable legal framework and access to integrated international research networks. However, the absence of Switzerland in the Horizon Europe programme has halted EU collaboration with Swiss science institutions such as CERN and the ETH. How can Europe move forward in continuing intracontinental scientific research despite its political differences?

Connecting the genes: Following the Russo-Ukrainian War, there have been substantial food shortages, making necessities inaccessible to many Europeans. Considering that GMOs can produce a larger volume of food with less resources, what role should GMOs play in Europe’s agricultural production, during the largest food crisis of the 21st century?

Why are you reading this in English: Globalisation has led to the use of English as a lingua franca- the language of communication between people that do not share a first language. Yet, many countries, such as Switzerland, preserve their multilingual heritage, in an effort to protect one of the most crucial aspects of cultural identity. With the World Economic Forum predicting that 1500 languages might be lost by the end of the century, how can Europe protect its multilingual identity?

The Robots are taking over: In light of the increasing involvement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation in the workforce, there is a growing uncertainty about the future job market and the key skills that will be in demand. What steps should Europe take to balance innovation and fair job oppor tunities while guaranteeing equitable employment prospects for its population?

Fashion Pollution: According to the European Environment Agency, the fast fashion industry has the fourth biggest impact on the environment, exceeded only by food, housing and transport. What can Europe do to ensure a more sustainable and environmentally responsible approach to fashion while ensuring that lower-income citizens can still afford quality clothing?

A shadow epidemic: Despite rates of violence against women reportedly rising throughout Europe, particularly during the pandemic, only two countries in Europe recognise femicide as a crime in its own right. With some countries, like Greece, experiencing an increase of up to 187.5% in femicides from 2020 to 2021. How should Europe change its legislative approach towards violence against women?

Nuclear, green, or both?: Europe’s push to transition away from reliance on Russian hydrocarbons and becoming a climate-neutral continent by 2050 introduces an important debate. Both green and nuclear energy present Europe with viable carbon-neutral possibilities moving forward. Considering Member States such Germany phasing out their nuclear reactors, and Poland planning to build its first, how should Europe go about it’s energy transition away from fossil fuels?

The Future of Tomorrow: According to the Eurobarometer, 46% of young people would be open to setting up their own business; however, this is something that only a small minority pursues. Barriers such as lacking capital, financial risks and knowledge, can all explain why so few can take on the risk of starting a business. How should Europe go about supporting and encouraging young entrepreneurs, which would thereafter boost the economy?

Boats of Hope: The last ten years have seen a higher than 8-fold increase in the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (FRONTEX)’s budget. Yet, with journeys of refugees crossing the Mediterranean to Europe becoming more dangerous and fatal than in 2015, FRONTEX’s practices are widely criticised.

How can Member States ensure the protection of human rights pursuant to the EU charter, while still exercising thorough border control of the Schengen area?

United Against Hate: Reports by INTCEN and Europol note that the threat posed by right-wing violent extremism is increasing, and can comprise of either lone-actor terrorism, or organised right-wing extremist groups. However, a comprehensive overview of ideologically-motivated violence is difficult to obtain, since Member States categorise violent extremist acts differently. 

Can Europe have a united approach to combat violent right-wing extremism and hate crime? If so, what would that approach entail?

Going for a stroll: With more compact walkable urban planning having been shown to have positive benefits on the wellbeing of its inhabitants, while simultaneously being potentially anxiety inducing.

What measures can European states take concerning city and transport infrastructure design, to foster this new living approach?

Drive to survive: The EU has voted to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2035. Bearing in mind that 42% of all charging points for electric cars in the EU are currently concentrated in two countries (Germany and the Netherlands), how can European countries best coordinate their efforts to build the infrastructure necessary for a harmonised transition to zero-emission cars by 2050?

Patchwork or a Network?: Due to decades of European countries choosing to invest in roads instead of rail, the development of the core rail network in Europe is massively stalled. A delay in the construction of a uniform signalling system (ERTMS) - with 90% of it being incomplete - is also hindering the process of European railway integration. Considering that trains can be sustainable, accessible and inexpensive, how should Europe go about furthering its railways?