Finland’s president, Alexander Stubb, on why Europe needs flexible integration

 

Europe is entering a period in which it is being severely tested. Geopolitical, economic and technological changes are heightening the sense of urgency across the continent to provide a coherent response to the many challenges Europe faces.

Alexander Stubb, President of Finland, will outline why he believes a more flexible model of European integration is essential for the continent to remain resilient, competitive and unified. He will reflect on Europe’s current security environment, the pressures on multilateral cooperation, and the need for pragmatic mechanisms to enable countries to enact much-needed change at pace, all still with a shared sense of purpose.

President Stubb will discuss how differentiated integration could strengthen the EU’s ability to respond to global challenges, from defence and energy to technology and economic security. He will also consider the political realities facing Europe in an era of shifting alliances and rising geopolitical tension, and outline how greater flexibility could help the continent protect its interests and values.