Wednesday 23 May 2012

Never Waste a Crisis

Corporate executives who understand the requirements of managing constant change know that crises can be a source of opportunity. The current crisis is shaking Europe to its very foundations. Europe’s economy and social fabric are being severely tested and Europe needs to position itself within a global context of profound economic and geopolitical transformation. The corporate world believes in Europe and is eager to turn this crisis into an opportunity and help promote the long awaited and required reforms.

The disaster scenario would be the total breakup of the Eurozone and the return of nationalism. The optimistic scenario is that Europe will find a unique and positive approach to resolving its issues and emerge stronger and even more committed to the European dream. The business world believes that a united Europe, with the support of its constituent nations, holds the key to the challenges that we face today. It is The State of the European Union provides the forum for the private sector to voice this message to the public sector.

Europe is facing multiple challenges. How to revive the European economy? How to re-invent Innovation and Technology? How do countries across our borders reflect on Europe? Should the European Social Model be refreshed or reformed? How to restore faith in the System? These are the questions and themes that will be addressed during the conference.

Representatives of leading multinationals will gather at this crucial time to share their views on Europe and to demonstrate their support for Europe as a destination for their continued investment in market development, innovation and talent. There will be great speakers including Mario Monti, the Prime Minister of Italy, Ivo Josipovic, President of Croatia, Sharon Bowles, Member of the European Parliament and Chairwoman of the Economic and Monetary Affairs committee, Laszlo Andor, European Commissioner responsible for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, Felipe Gonzalez, Former Prime Minister of Spain, Angel Gurria, Secretary General of OECD and a number of global and EMEA CEOs of major multinationals.

The first edition of this event taught us that the corporate view should and must be heard in the ongoing debate on how to tackle the European crisis. The upcoming second edition will continue the discussions to formulate recommendations and to really make an impact. We look forward to a fruitful and constructive day at the Egmont Palace and welcoming you to The State of The European Union – Episode 2!

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