European Union - The Sixteenth Council

Is Europe About to Be Colonized?

Europe stands at an uncomfortable crossroads, squeezed between Washington and Beijing. As the U.S. reasserts its security dominance and China deepens its economic reach, the continent risks drifting into a 21st-century form of colonial dependency—ceding sovereignty over defense, technology, and supply chains. Without a coherent, purpose-driven vision of its own, the EU could end up reacting rather than leading, becoming a strategic pawn instead of a power in its own right.

Ursula von der Leyen’s Multiannual Financial Framework Gamble

On 16 July, Ursula von der Leyen unveiled a bold EUR 2 trillion budget proposal for the EU’s 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework. Aiming to shift priorities toward competitiveness, defence, and strategic investment, the plan marks a significant departure from traditional focuses like agriculture and cohesion. While it reflects her vision of a stronger, more centralised EU, the proposal has triggered internal dissent and sparked backlash from member states. The battle over Europe’s future direction is now firmly underway.

Europe’s Trade Reboot: From Liberal Idealism to Strategic Geo-Economics

Europe’s trade model is undergoing a seismic shift—from liberal idealism to strategic geo-economics. As global power rivalries reshape economic flows, the EU must reforge trade policy as an instrument of statecraft, aligning it with security, resilience, and influence. The age of values-driven trade is ending; purpose-driven trade must begin.

Europe Between Giants: Strategic Autonomy or Strategic Confusion?

As the U.S. recalibrates, China expands, and Russia regroups, Europe must decide whether it will be a power in its own right—or a playground for others.

Tariffs and Trump: Reciprocity or Recklessness?

On May 21st, Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs on EU goods and issued a sharp warning to Apple: move production to the U.S. or face penalties. It’s classic Trump; loud, provocative, and deeply strategic. But is it smart policy or reckless power play? This piece unpacks the logic behind the move, weighing its morality, fairness, and real-world impact in a tense moment for global trade and economic diplomacy.

Technology Regulation and Competition in the European Union – A Balancing Act

As the potential for large gains from competitive technology has increased through the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems, the European Union has struggled to perform at the same level as global tech leaders such as the United States and China. The EU despite its regulatory advances, however find itself to be on the lower end of the leaderboard in the global tech race.

Protests Continue in Georgia After EU Bid Suspended

Pro-European demonstrations have rocked Georgia for a fourth consecutive night, as thousands rally against the government’s decision to delay accession talks with the European Union until at least 2028. Protesters demand the reversal of what they see as a betrayal…

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