Convergence for a stronger Europe

FES, together with the Masaryk Democratic Academy (MDA) and the Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS) is organizing a public debate about convergence in the European Union at the University of Olomouc.

So far, convergence in the EU has been more of an abstract goal constantly put off into an undefined future, rather than a real and robust force bringing societies and economies closer. This is not to deny tangible achievements made after “Southern” and “Eastern” enlargements. The upcoming reforms to the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU), to cohesion policy and the EU budget require ambitious institutional changes to generate more convergence, e.g. a robust “social dimension” and sufficient financing for a forward-looking industrial transformation. Finding new resources for convergence and well-targeted investment is indispensable for success. How can the EU governance be reformed to bolster development in rural areas? How can European integration deliver a fairer market with upgraded working conditions for all?

These questions will be discussed with:

• László Andor, Senior Fellow at the FEPS, Director of the Economic Policy Department at Corvinus University and Former European Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion.

• Viktória Nagy, President, Youth Committee of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC)

• Uwe Optenhögel , Vice President, Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS)

• Conny Reuter, Secretary General, Solidar

• Radka Sokolová, Vice President, Czech-Moravian Confederation of Trade Unions

Thursday, 14th February,
16:00 – 18:30,
Václav Havel classroom, Palacký University, Křížkovského 511/8, Olomouc

Participation without registration