Program:

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The conference will be hosted by Filip Lukeš from the Institute for Politics and Society.

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EU – US Economic Relations: Key Arteries of the Global Economy

The United States and the European Union are each other´s largest trade and investment partners, characterized by highly integrated economic relationships that are key arteries of the global economy. During the presidency of Donald Trump, this bilateral relationship faced significant challenges, including the implementation of tariffs and trade barriers. The revitalization of these relationships was then a key goal of the campaign of the current American President Joe Biden. Although progress has been made in restoring the harmonization of trade relations between the USA and the EU, signs of certain frictions still remain. Despite being a crucial economic partnership, a free trade agreement, which could potentially have an overall positive impact for both sides, has not yet been concluded. Given the current geopolitical situation and its impacts on the economic sphere, it is evident that deepening economic cooperation and its more intense harmonization is now more important for both the USA and the EU than ever before.

What impact could the current geopolitical situation have on economic cooperation between the USA and the EU? What specific steps or strategies can both sides adopt to strengthen and improve their mutual economic relationships? What are the main barriers to better integration of trade ties between the USA and the EU? How important is it for the USA and the EU to maintain harmonious economic relations in light of global events?

EU – US Political Relations: 2024 as a stress test for the Western World and the future of liberal democracy

The year 2024 represents a politically crucial year for both the United States of America and the European Union. On the western coast of the Atlantic, presidential elections are taking place, likely featuring a matchup between current President Joe Biden and his predecessor Donald Trump. On the eastern coast, in June, the European Parliament elections will be held, followed by the appointment of a new European Commission, which will significantly influence the future direction of the European Union. The EU and USA are considered pillars of liberal democracy, yet both face internal and external threats that could jeopardize their position. This year will be recorded in history as a test of democracy, and resilience, determining the future course of relations between the USA and the EU, and also affecting the fate of the entire Western world.

What steps should the European Union take to counter the rising influence of extremist right-wing parties? How might differences in the political orientations of EU member states affect their ability to effectively respond to international crises? How should the EU find a balance between protecting the principles of liberal democracy and respecting the diversity of political views of its member states?

EU – US Security Relations: European Security in the Shadow of the US Elections

The United States maintains its title as the strongest country in the world, supported by its extensive military arsenal, vast capabilities, and the highest global defense spending. These factors contribute to the maintenance of the current international order. Nevertheless, new powers are emerging on the global stage, seeking to change this status quo, bringing increased tension and security risks. In the current security climate and in the context of ongoing conflicts, the aspect of security is once again perceived as crucial for every state or community. The European Union, lacking its own military forces besides national armies, is significantly dependent on support from the United States through NATO. However, with the upcoming American elections, the assurance of European security is shrouded in uncertainty, especially if Donald Trump, who has previously shown skepticism towards Europe, returns to the White House.

How might the results of the US presidential elections influence the dynamics of relations with the European Union, particularly in the context of resolving international conflicts? What steps should the EU take to strengthen its response to global crises and solidify its position in international relations? What role does the EU play in ensuring its security, and what initiatives could it introduce within its common defense policy? Are there differences in the perception of security threats between the USA and the EU, and how might these differences affect their future cooperation in the field of security?

The working language of the conference will be English (translation services won’t be provided).

DUE TO LIMITED CAPACITY, ADVANCED REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. PARTICIPATION IN THE EVENT IS NOT POSSIBLE WITHOUT CONFIRMATION OF REGISTRATION FROM THE ORGANIZER.