Is the European project fit to face the 21st century world? The renowned sociologist Anthony Giddens thinks that on balance it is, provided that it also devotes energy and attention to some of the great existential questions that it faces in a rapidly changing and highly competitive world. Professor Giddens was the speaker at a recent ECFR Black Coffee Morning, and set out what he saw as three vital issues that the EU must come to terms with if it is to retain its influence and place in the world today.

The first issue is finding a new source of jobs in a swiftly evolving economic system. Professor Giddens believes this will require a greater understanding of new technologies and a more forward thinking appreciation of education than Europe currently has.

Second on his list is an evaluation of the place of what is commonly called the European Social Model, although he was also quick to point out that this comes in so many forms within the EU that the term itself is deeply fuzzy.

Third, Professor Giddens deals with the related issues of climate change and energy. He argues that climate change is going to alter the world considerably, and that energy policies need to evolve, both to mitigate the impact of climate change and to harness new energy technologies. On this issue, Professor Giddens believes Europe is currently failing.

You can listen to a short podcast with Professor Giddens explaining this last point here:

We also have the entire audio from the Black Coffee Morning, including Professor Giddens' explanation of his position:

Finally, ECFR's "Reinvention of Europe" programme can be found on our website, with plenty more publications, podcasts and articles - go to www.ecfr.eu/reinvention

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