In this edition of Government, the future of Europe comes under scrutiny following the UK’s historic vote to leave the EU in June. No sector of European politics will be untouched by Brexit, and here, several high profile European figures reflect on the expecting outcomes of the referendum. This issue also touches upon the novel technologies revolutionising economics and covers innovation and regional policy in transport.
What will the future of Europe look like?
- Thorbjørn Jagland, secretary general of the Council of Europe, highlights the need for greater European co-operation in response to the migrant crisis;
- Georges Dassis, president of the European Economic and Social Committee, recommends a renewal of enthusiasm for the European project; and
- Balazs Ujvari of Egmont, the Royal Institute for International Relations, outlines the future of the EU’s multilateral agenda.
How is digitalisation changing the economy?
- Mark Langley of the Project Management Institute reveals his thoughts on changes in the profession of project management;
- Siân Jones of the European Digital Currency & Blockchain Technology Forum explains the changes being brought about by cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology;
- Financial commentator Chris Skinner offers a key insight into how computers and digital technologies will change how we make payments; and
- The World Bank Group’s Jarett Decker details new EU rules on financial auditing.
What is being done to protect the environment?
- Jos Delbeke, director general of the commission’s Directorate-General for Climate Action, discusses his approach to climate change challenges;
- Andrew Purvis of the Global CCS Institute advocates for CCUS to help in meeting climate targets;
- Bruno Tisserand of EurEau explores the role of waste water in the European Commission’s proposed Circular Economy Package; and
- Carol Ritchie of the EUROPARC Federation advocates for better protection of Europe’s conservation areas.
Can regional efforts transform European transport?
- The Austrian Ministry for Transport’s Ursula Zechner discusses the country’s efforts to make transport more green;
- Jan Nylander, from the region of Gävleborg, Sweden, explains an innovative project to develop Europe’s first fully electrified highway;
- Micha Lesemann, chief engineer at RWTH Aachen University’s Institute for Automotive Engineering, argues that public engagement will be the key to catalysing the electric vehicle transition; and
- Christophe Tytgat of SEA Europe gives an overview of emerging technologies in the maritime sector.
