Associated Presidency Events offer a unique opportunity for IIEA members and partners to contribute to the conversations shaping Europe’s future during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.  It is a valuable platform to connect expertise with policy discussions at a pivotal moment for Ireland and the EU.

The IIEA is delighted to host three Presidency Associated events in September 2026. The IIEA is delighted to host three events that are recognised as an Associated Event of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026. 

Europe in Good Health: Securing EU Leadership in Life Sciences

Organised by the IIEA and supported by Johnson & Johnson, Europe in Good Health: Securing EU Leadership in Life Sciences is an Associated Event of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026. Taking place at a pivotal moment for European health and innovation policy, the conference will explore how Europe can strengthen its global leadership in life sciences by placing the “Value of Health” at the centre of policymaking. Discussions will focus on the opportunities presented by key policy developments, including the forthcoming EU Biotech Act, and their implications for competitiveness, innovation and patient outcomes.

Bringing together senior policymakers, EU and Irish officials, healthcare professionals, patient advocates, academics and industry leaders, the conference will provide a platform for dialogue on the future of Europe’s life sciences ecosystem. Through expert discussion and stakeholder engagement, the event will examine the partnerships, policies and investments needed to support both therapeutic excellence and economic competitiveness across the European Union.

Think2030 Ireland

The Think2030 Ireland Conference, co-organised by the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP) and the IIEA, and recognised as an Associated Event of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026, will explore how sustainability can strengthen Europe’s resilience, preparedness and competitiveness. As Europe faces growing climate, geopolitical, economic and social challenges, the conference will provide an opportunity to examine how these interconnected issues can be addressed through forward-looking and evidence-based policymaking.

Bringing together European and Irish policymakers, representatives of EU institutions, researchers, business leaders, civil society organisations and think tanks, the conference will foster dialogue on some of the most pressing issues facing the European Union. As part of the wider Think2030 series, it will contribute practical policy recommendations and fresh perspectives on building a more resilient, sustainable and competitive Europe for the future.

Stay up to date with the latest Presidency related discussions and opportunities by visiting the IIEA Events page and following us on LinkedIn.

Critical Industries and a Resilient Europe: Health at the Heart of Strategic Autonomy

Organised by the IIEA in partnership with the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA), ‘Critical Industries and a Resilient Europe: Health at the Heart of Strategic Autonomy’ will explore the role of health and the pharmaceutical sector in strengthening Europe’s competitiveness, resilience, security and strategic autonomy. It will provide a platform to examine how critical industries can support sustainable economic growth and help Europe respond to an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.

Bringing together senior Irish and EU policymakers, industry leaders, academics and other key stakeholders, the conference will foster high-level discussion on the contribution of health and life sciences to Europe’s future prosperity and resilience. The event will also highlight Ireland’s role as a hub for innovation and thought leadership, while raising awareness of the pharmaceutical sector’s contribution to European competitiveness, security and long-term resilience.