The Council of Councils is an initiative led by one of the biggest US think tanks, the Council on Foreign Relations. It connects leading foreign policy institutes from 24 countries around the world in conversation on issues of global governance and multilateral cooperation. CEPS is the only Belgian think tank taking part in the network and, for the first time ever, will host a regional conference at its premises.
As it lays the foundations for a new five-year mandate, the EU must redefine its role as a geopolitical actor in an era marked by conflicts and tensions in neighboring regions, from Ukraine to the Middle East, as the world hangs in an increasingly precarious balance. The EU, as a champion of good regulation, human rights, sustainable development, and trade, sets high expectations for partner countries, which seek concrete and consistent action in the coming years. Simultaneously, the EU must shape its international partnerships and navigate its relationships with major powers like the U.S., China, and rising nations such as India. From the Global Gateway to COP29, this session will gather insights from think tanks outside the EU bubble, providing a reality check on the EU’s ambitions and potential to lead in global geopolitics, despite ongoing concerns about its decline.
Join us for this closed-door session to meet 25 think tanks from all around the world that will be attending the regional conference. The event is accessible to CEPS members and additional guests by invitation only.
