EU Affairs
The Institute’s EU Affairs Programme monitors policy developments and election outcomes from across EU Member States, the priorities of the rotating Presidencies of the Council of the EU and ongoing issues of concern for the European Union, such as the rule of law and the rise of populism.
Publications
Another ‘Twist’ on Subsea Cable Repair: Developments in Europe and what role, if any, for Ireland
Looking ahead to the 2026 Irish Presidency
The paper assesses the role of the upcoming Irish Presidency of the EU. It considers what the Irish priorities might be, and what legislative files might coincide with Ireland’s time at the helm.
The Price of American Retreat: USAID’s Aid Freeze and Democratic Fragility in Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans
This paper analyses how the 2025 USAID aid freeze has intensified democratic fragility in Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans. Through cases including Ukraine, Moldova, Serbia, and Kosovo, the paper shows how the sudden withdrawal of US support has weakened civil society and independent media, emboldened illiberal actors, and created openings for Russian influence, while considering whether the EU can fill the resulting gap.
Ending Homelessness: What the EU’s Affordable Housing Plan Must Deliver
This paper examines the escalating homelessness and housing affordability crisis across Europe and outlines how upcoming EU policy initiatives can help address it.
Policy to Practice: The Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Ireland and the EU
This paper explores disability policy in Ireland and the EU, contextualising it within the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). The authors also reflect on the IIEA’s 2024 Disability Policy Programme, in its second year.
Strengthening the Single Market: An Overview of the Enrico Letta Report
This paper summarises the Letta report’s main points and suggestions, presents some reactions to the report and concludes with some potential priorities.
A Sticky Situation: Fraudulent Honey in the EU
This paper explores the effectiveness of current EU regulations and international cooperation in detecting and preventing honey fraud. Drawing on interviews carried out in July 2024, the paper looks to understand the perspectives of groups directly affected by honey adulteration in the EU honey market and asks what technological and legislative improvements can be deployed to protect consumers and support EU honey producers
Citizens’ Juries and Spatial Planning - A Formula for Change?
This paper by Edmond Grace explores the role of citizens’ juries in the context of spatial planning in Ireland and their use in deliberative processes within the European Union.
An Overview: Disability rights and policy in Ireland and the EU
This paper provides an introduction to disability policy in Ireland and across the EU.
Can a new statecraft save the UK’s dysfunctional Union?
This paper by Paul Gillespie aims to examine the state of the UK government in 2023, how it has progressed to this point regarding conservative statecraft, and possibilities for the future in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
UK Trade: Background and Future under the TCA and the Windsor Framework
This paper by Blair Horan, member of the IIEA’s UK expert group, examines the background and future of post-Brexit UK trade.
Action on Poverty in Europe: Fifty Years Ago
This paper, by IIEA Senior Fellow, Tony Brown, deals with the events of 1973 leading to the agreement of the Social Action Programme in December, with particular emphasis on the role of Ireland, which was at that time a newcomer to the EEC.
50th Anniversary: The Paris Summit October 1972
In this paper, IIEA Senior Fellow Tony Brown, reflects on this significant event in Ireland-EU relations, and brings together some key commentary and reaction from the time.
Making Corporate Accountability Mandatory in the EU
Evaluating the European Commission’s draft Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence.
The Corporate Tax Conundrum: Why the OECD negotiations are crucial for Ireland
This paper attempts to analyse the current state of play of the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework on base erosion and profit shifting, (BEPS), assess its possible future direction of travel, and discuss what it will mean both for Ireland and the rest of the world.
From Fragile Continent to Vital Union
This brief examines the major issues Commission President von der Leyen outlined in her inaugural State of the Union address to the European Parliament on 16 September 2020. It also analyses the options arising from her speech and their potential implications for the EU and for Ireland.
The Multilateral Order Post-Covid: Expert Voices
The multilateral order as we have known it since the Second World War was already showing strains before the world was afflicted with the coronavirus pandemic. The unprecedented measures taken across the world to deal with the immediate crisis have only highlighted the need for a more thoroughgoing examination of this order. In this IIEA Expert Voices publication, ten foreign policy experts share short perspectives on the question of how COVID-19 pandemic will impact different aspects of the rules-based multilateral order.
EU Strategic Autonomy: Filling the Gaps: A New Momentum for Common Security and Defence Policy
This policy brief examines the accelerated development of Common Security and Defence policy in the two years following the publication of the ‘EU Global Strategy’.
Maintaining the Rule of Law in Poland: What next for the Article 7 proceedings?
This unprecedented proposal follows almost two years of dialogue and represents a significant escalation in the ongoing rule of law dispute.
Enhancing Cooperation – German Attitudes Towards European Security and Defence Policy
Looking ahead to the German Federal Elections, which will take place on 24 September 2017, the paper also examines the views of Germany’s main opposition parties.
6 Years On: Assessing the Impact of Country Specific Recommendations
This policy brief examines how the CSRs have evolved since their introduction in 2011 and analyses the implementation record of the recommendations to date, particularly in the case of Ireland.
The Consolidated and Annotated version of the Treaties as amended by the Treaty of Lisbon
Events
Albania and EU Enlargement: Progress, Aspirations, and Expectations from the Irish Presidency
A Keynote Address by Ferit Hoxha, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania
The Future of Europe’s Social Model and the Irish Presidency
An expert panel will discuss the future of Europe’s social model and European social policy
A fireside chat with European Commissioner Marta Kos: A growing EU in times of continental upheaval
A keynote address by Marta Kos the European Commissioner for Enlargement
Trade and Geopolitics: trade policy as a driver for EU competitiveness and resilience in a turbulent era
Ireland’s EU Presidency in Times of Global Disarray: How Germany and Ireland will work towards a stronger Europe
Christoph Wolfrum, Director General for European Affairs at the German Federal Foreign Office, will give a keynote address in his upcoming trip to Dublin at the IIEA.
Ireland’s EU Presidency: Leading Europe’s Public Health Agenda
This panel discussion will bring together healthcare professionals, policymakers, industry representatives, and other experts to explore how Ireland’s forthcoming EU Presidency can help to re-energise Europe’s public health agenda.
Beyond the Belt and Road: Europe’s Global Gateway Strategy
This event explores what Global Gateway means in practice for Ireland, examining how Irish businesses, including SMEs, can engage with EU-backed financing instruments and international infrastructure projects, while ensuring alignment with sustainable development objectives and the priorities of partners in the Global South.
Strategic Foresight Systems: What Policymakers Can Learn from Finland
A panel discussion on strategic foresight systems as part of our series on Finland's Future’s Ecosystem
Beyond Borders: The European Green Deal and Implications for the Global South
A webinar presentation by Dr Joana Portugal Pereira, Assistant Professor at Instituto Superior Técnico, ULisboa and Research Fellow at the Center for Innovation, Technology and Policy Research
Finland’s Futures Ecosystem
An online panel event on Finland’s Futures Ecosystem
Reclaiming Europe’s Promise: The Quality Jobs Agenda and the Next Social Contract
An address by Esther Lynch, General Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation.
International Trade – The Challenges Ahead
A high-level trade conference featuring Maroš Šefčovič, EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security.
Economic Opportunities in the Context of Constitutional Change
Caoimhe Archibald, Minister for the Economy in Northern Ireland, will give a keynote address at the Institute of International and European Affairs.
European Commission Experts in Conversation with Marie Baker on the Rule of Law Report 2025
In this IIEA webinar, the Head and Deputy Head of the Rule of Law Unit in DG JUST in the European Commission presents the Commission’s most recent findings and recommendations contained in the Rule of Law Report 2025.
The Meaning of the EU’s Strategic Partnership with Central Asia
On 3-4 April 2025, the first ever EU-Central Asia Summit took place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. At the summit, political leaders of the EU and Central Asian countries took the landmark step to upgrade relations between the two regions to a strategic partnership.
Can the EU’s Affordable Housing Plan Help Tackle Homelessness?
In her address to the IIEA, Ruth Owen, Deputy Director at FEANTSA, will examine the European Union’s efforts to address homelessness through its evolving affordable housing agenda.
Developing a Life Sciences Vision for Ireland: Insights from Europe on Health Innovation
Developing a Life Sciences Vision for Ireland: Insights from Europe on Health Innovation is the second event in a series on Developing a Life Sciences Vision for Ireland, organised by the Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA) in partnership with Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine.
Romania at a Crossroads: Assessing the Results and Impact of the 2025 Presidential Elections
This webinar explores Romania’s presidential runoff and its potential consequences for democracy, foreign policy, and EU relations amid growing far-right influence and political uncertainty.
Living and Working in Europe: Challenges and Opportunities for Europe’s Social Agenda
Panel event on Living and Working in Europe: Challenges and Opportunities for Europe’s Social Agenda
EU-India Relations: Cooperation, Connectivity, and a Free Trade Future?
In this IIEA panel discussion, Dr Sonali Chowdhry and Dr Amitendu Palit address the prospects of a potential EU-India Free Trade Agreement and consider what an EU-India partnership should or should not prioritise.
Constitutional Change and the Rise of Fiscal Discipline in Europe: Ripple Effects on Fundamental Social Rights
Keynote address by Dr Maria Kotsoni, Postdoctoral Researcher at Princeton University
Shaping Inclusive Futures: The EU’s Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Global Implications
A Keynote Address by Inmaculada Placencia Porrero, Senior Expert in Disability and Inclusion at the European Commission.
Rising to the Competitiveness Challenge – A New Era for EU Competition Policy?
An expert panel reflects on competition policy and competitiveness in the EU and how the Draghi report may influence the new Commission.
Germany’s Political Uncertainty Ahead of the 2025 Federal Election
Derek Scally, Berlin correspondent for the Irish Times, gives an overview of the options for any new German government following the September 2025 federal election.
Driving Inclusion: Enhancing Disability Services and Policies Across Europe
On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Kirsi Konola, President of the EASPD, provides a comprehensive overview of the EU framework for disability policy and looks at examples of structures in different Member States and European countries to support disability services
Digital Assistive Technology as a Key Enabler to Assisted Living
Dr Cathal Morgan addresses the much-needed step-change in our approach to assistive technology and how Ireland can shift to being a global leader in the field.
What’s on Europe’s Horizon?: Technologies, Trends, and Policies Shaping Ireland’s Long-Term Future
A Panel Discussion on What’s on Europe’s Horizon?: Technologies, Trends, and Policies Shaping Ireland’s Long-Term Future
European Union & African Union Relations: A Joint Vision for 2030
In his address to the IIEA, Ambassador Javier Niño Pérez discusses the evolving partnership between the European Union and the African Union.
Developing a Life Sciences Vision for Ireland: Lessons from Europe on Economic Strategy
Developing a Life Sciences Vision for Ireland: Lessons from Europe on Economic Strategy is the first event in a two-part hybrid series on Developing a Life Sciences Vision for Ireland, organised by the Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA) in partnership with Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine.
Post-Legislative Elections in France: What Happened and What’s Next?
Panel event on the recent French legislative elections.
The Place of France and the EU in the Face of Global Upheavals
Keynote address by Édouard Philippe, Mayor of Le Havre and former Prime Minister of France
Post-European Parliament Elections: What’s Next?
This panel discussion brings together experts from academia and politics to discuss the next steps after the European Parliament elections, which took place across Europe between 6-9 June 2024.
What’s next? The Rise and Normalisation of the Far Right in the Netherlands
In her address to the IIEA, Dr Léonie de Jonge discusses the rise and normalisation of far-right politics in the Netherlands and the implications of this for Europe and the Benelux region.
Mapping the Romania-Moldova-Ukraine Triangle in Geopolitics
A Discussion with Radu Magdin, CEO – EU Affairs and Global Operations at Smartlink Communications.
Lessons for Irish Reunification from Germany
Professor Tobias Lock discusses the legal complexities of Irish reunification, drawing parallels with German unity, highlighting integration strategies and key challenges in merging two legal systems.
What is the Future of EU-China Relations?
A Discussion with Finbarr Bermingham, Senior Europe Correspondent at the South China Morning Post on ‘What is the Future of EU-China Relations?'
Inflation in the Eurozone
Philip Lane discusses the inflation outlook in the Eurozone at a time when hopes of a return to price stability are rising.
Disinformation and Foreign Information Manipulation: A Challenge for Democracy?
Lutz Güllner discusses disinformation and foreign information manipulation and their implications for the democratic resilience of the EU.
Investing in a Sustainable Future for All
Nadia Calviño outlines her priorities for her term as EIB President.
A European Approach to Combatting Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence
Inclusivity for Persons With Disabilities? The Electoral Rights of Persons With Disabilities in the European Union
Alejandro Moledo gives an overview of political participation for persons with disabilities across the EU, including the barriers and challenges that need to be addressed.
Sanctions Against Russia – Going Global
In his address to IIEA, David O’Sullivan, EU Sanction Envoy, will reflect on his role, which he was appointed to in January 2023, to reach out to third countries and maximise the impact of EU sanctions against Russia by ensuring that sanctions are implemented fully and effectively.
Disability and Sustainable Development: Integrating Policy into National Realities from a Disabled Persons’ Organisation (DPO) Perspective
In his address, James Casey will discuss the importance of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) for disabled people and their role in ensuring that the SDGs are achieved.
End-of-Year Review of German Politics
Derek Scally breaks down the major events that took place in Berlin this past year.
From Rule of Law to Rule of Lawlessness in the EU?
Professor Laurent Pech on the Rule of Law crisis in Europe.
The End of Germany’s China Illusion
A webinar presentation by Dr Janka Oertel, Director of the Asia Programme at the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR)
The EU’s Response to Brexit
Three leading Irish voices on the EU to a panel discussion on Prof Brigid Laffan's recent book 'The EU's Response to Brexit'.
Towards a Central Bank Digital Currency? One View from the United States
Mr Calabia shares recent research on the opportunities and challenges presented by the potential introduction of a central bank digital currency (CBDC).
The Role of the EU in Promoting Better Cancer Care and Outcomes
In this event an expert panel discusses the role of the EU in promoting better cancer care outcomes and what Ireland can learn from other EU Member States.
Access to Education for Persons with Disabilities in Europe
A panel discussion on access to education for persons with disabilities in Europe.
Space: A New Frontier for Ireland?
A panel discussion on Space: A New Frontier for Ireland?
Just and Green: An Industrial Policy for Europe
A keynote address by Esther Lynch, General Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation
The German National Security Strategy: It All Depends on the Implementation
Dr Markus Kaim addresses the Institute on the German National Security Strategy
Frontline to the Picket Line: Striking Nurses and the NHS Crisis
Nicola Ranger will discuss challenges facing British nurses at a time of NHS crisis and the role of trade unions in influencing political change.
The State of the European Union 2023
A hybrid panel discussion assessing the key themes explored and President von der Leyen’s outlook and priorities for the future of Europe.
The Nature Restoration Regulation: Implications for Ireland and Europe
Pippa Hackett, Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity, will address the overarching aims of the Nature Restoration Regulation, and discuss what it means for Ireland and Europe.
The State of Play in Ukraine: Post-invasion prospects for peace and integration
The EU Banking Sector at a Crossroads
In his address to the IIEA, Mr Campa argues that the EU needs to continue to pursue a banking sector that supports the economy for the challenges ahead.
Digitalisation and the Future of Work in Europe
This joint EPLO-IIEA webinar will address questions concerning the future of work in Europe and the role of the European Parliament in this field.
Homelands: Chronicles of the Continent
Timothy Garton Ash’s latest book, Homelands: A Personal History of Europe, explores the author’s personal experiences with major events in recent European history.
Ireland & the European Health Union: What will it mean for rare diseases?
At this event, expert speakers explore what the European Health Union will mean for rare diseases in Ireland and across the EU.
Fresh Perspectives: A guide to your career in public service and international affairs
For the IIEA’s first in-person student event, a panel of young professionals come together to offer fresh perspectives on how to forge a career in diplomacy and public life.
Building Democratic Resilience in the European Union
In this webinar, a panel of expert speakers will consider how to build democratic resilience in the European Union in the face of internal and external threats.
The Zeitenwende: How Russia’s invasion of Ukraine scrambled Germany’s post-Merkel coalition
In his address to the IIEA, Irish Times Berlin Correspondent, Derek Scally, assesses the first year in office of Germany’s “traffic light” coalition.
What’s Over the Horizon? Monetary Policy in 2023 and Beyond
In his address to the IIEA, Gabriel Makhlouf, Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, speaks about the path for monetary policy in the euro area in 2023 and beyond.
Europe is our Future: The Language of Business
This webinar will be the final seminar of the 2022 Europe is our Future Series, co-organised with Enterprise Ireland.
A Fresh Start for EU-UK Relations?
Tony Connelly, Europe Editor for RTÉ News will discuss whether the election of Rishi Sunak as Prime Minister will herald a fresh start for EU-UK relations.
Italy’s New Government and What It Means for the EU
Dr Giuseppe Porcaro, Head of Outreach at Bruegel, will discuss the current political landscape in Italy
Ireland & The European Health Union Series: Opportunities to Improve Irish Healthcare
This event, with Janssen Sciences Ireland, features a keynote address by John F. Ryan, Acting Deputy Director-General for Health, DG SANTE at the European Commission. This is followed by an expert panel discussion on the European Health Union and the opportunities to improve Irish healthcare.
Knives Out in the UK Conservative Party: Who Will Replace Boris Johnson?
Denis Staunton, London Editor of The Irish Times, analyses the Conservative Party’s leadership election to replace Boris Johnson.
On va où maintenant? The Post-Election French Political Landscape
A panel discussion on the French political landscape following the 2022 presidential and parliamentary elections, with Dr. Emmanuelle Schon-Quinlivan and Lara Marlowe, examining their possible implications for France, Ireland, and the EU.
The 2nd Annual John Hume ‘European Spirit of Peace’ Lecture
The IIEA is honoured to host the second edition of the John Hume ‘European Spirit of Peace’ Lecture which was delivered by Prof. Brigid Laffan.
France and Ireland: New Borders, New Futures
The panel will address the current state of relations between Ireland and the Normandy Region of France, following the UK’s departure from the EU.
Priorities of the Czech Presidency of the EU
Deputy Minister Havrda outlines the priorities of the upcoming Czech Presidency of the European Union in the context of the war in Ukraine and the challenges facing the EU.
Reflections on the Future of Anglo-Irish Relations
Bertie Ahern, former Taoiseach of Ireland, considers the future of Anglo-Irish Relations.
Ireland, Europe, and the World in James Joyce’s Ulysses
A panel discussion exploring the political, European, and international dimensions of James Joyce’s Ulysses with Professor Anne Fogarty (UCD) and Ambassador Daniel Mulhall, on the 100th anniversary of Ulysses’ publication, 100 years of Irish independence and 50 years of EU membership.
Are We Entering a New Era of High Inflation?
Prof. John B. Taylor considers whether the world is entering a new era of higher inflation and what to do about it.
The Future of France: the 2022 French Presidential Election
A panel discussion on the 2022 French presidential election with Dr. Emmanuelle Schon-Quinlivan and Lara Marlowe exploring the state of play and potential consequences for France, Ireland, and the EU.
The Future of Ireland’s Industrial Policy
Leo Varadkar TD delivers a keynote address to the IIEA on the future of Ireland’s industrial policy.
The Macroeconomic Outlook for the Euro Area and its Implications for the ECB’s Monetary Policy
Frank Elderson, Member of the ECB Executive Board and Vice-Chair of the ECB’s Supervisory Board delivers an address on the macroeconomic outlook for the euro area and its implications for the ECB’s monetary policy.
Reporting the EU
Celebrating International Women’s Day 2022, the IIEA welcomes distinguished journalists working on EU affairs, Shona Murray and Mary Regan, for a panel discussion on gender equality in the EU and their lived experiences as women in journalism.
Briefings
‘Europe as a Task: Rethink, Rebuild, Repower’: The Key Priorities of the Czech Presidency of the Council of the EU
Overview of Food Prices: Recent Trends at Global, European and National Levels
Con Lucey examines recent trends in food prices at global, European and national level.
Recovery, Strength, Belonging: Key Priorities of the French Presidency of the Council of the EU
This briefing outlines the priorities of the French Presidency of the Council of the European Union beginning on 1 January 2022. France’s Presidency will prioritise the development of a more sovereign EU better able to protect and promote its interests, a new economic growth model for the EU, and a more social and human Union.
Together, Resilient, Europe: The Key Priorities of the Slovenian Presidency of the Council of the EU
Time to Deliver: The Key Priorities of the Portuguese Presidency of the Council of the EU
On 1 July 2020, Germany assumed the rotating Presidency of the EU Council against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. This briefing examines what we can expect over the next six months
The Art of Compromise: Outcome of the Special European Council of July 2020
This briefing will examine the outcome of the special European Council of 17-21 July and its significance for the EU.
Macron’s Health Check for European Sovereignty
This briefing outlines the French vision for European sovereignty and examines how the pandemic has prompted further discussion in Europe’s recovery post-COVID-19 on the proposal to transfer competences for health to the EU.
Together for Europe’s Recovery: The Key Priorities of the German Presidency of the Council of the EU
On 1 July 2020, Germany assumed the rotating Presidency of the EU Council against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. This briefing examines what we can expect over the next six months.
A Strong Europe in a World of Challenges: Croatian Presidency EU
This briefing examines what we can expect from the Croatian Presidency programme over the next six months.
Macron’s Balancing Act in Europe
This brief provides an overview of France’s influence on the selection of the heads of the EU institutions and future thematic focus, in respect of developments within the EU since the European elections took place on 23-26 May 2019
Priorities of the Finnish Presidency
On 1 July 2019, Finland assumed the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union. This briefing examines what we can expect over the next six months.
Towards a “League of European leagues”? Matteo Salvini’s European designs
This is the third in a series of analytical briefings examining the rise of populist movements and challenges to the liberal order across Europe today.
IIEA Briefing on the Romanian Presidency
On 1 January 2019, Romania assumed the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which it will hold until 30 June 2019. This is Romania’s first Presidency since joining the European Union in 2007. This briefing examines what we can expect over the next six months.
Germany’s New AI Strategy
This brief charts the ways in which German Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy has been prioritised by Angela Merkel since the 2017 Federal Elections.
Blog posts
Developing a Life Sciences Vision for Ireland: Lessons from Europe on Economic Strategy
30 Years of EU Peacebuilding in Northern Ireland: Insights from the Special EU Programmes Body
German-Irish relations under the third Joint Plan of Action for Enhanced Bilateral and EU Cooperation (2024)
From Dependence to Interdependence: Reflections on Ireland’s EU Accession Journey
Checkmate for Babiš’? What are the implications of the Czech parliamentary election results for Ireland and the EU?
Beyond Borissov? The Possible Implications of the Bulgarian Parliamentary Election for the EU and Ireland.
What are the implications of the Dutch parliamentary election results for Ireland and the EU?