EU Affairs

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.

Reflections on Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine: One Year On

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.

EU Economic Governance: Guide to the Main Elements

David Cameron’s European Strategy - An Initial Assessment

Fishing for a Future: The Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy

Lisbon: The Irish Guarantees Explained 

What the Lisbon Treaty Means

The Consolidated and Annotated version of the Treaties as amended by the Treaty of Lisbon

Inflation in the Eurozone

Philip Lane will discuss 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 will discuss disinformation and foreign information manipulation and their implications for the democratic resilience of the EU.

Investing in a Sustainable Future for All

Nadia Calviño will outline her priorities for her term as EIB President.

Democracy Erodes from the Top: Misperceptions about the Populist Challenge

A European Approach to Combatting Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence

A Keynote Address by Alberto Alemanno

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

Whistleblower Protection in France and the EU

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 and the EU at 50: Politics, Policy and Transformation

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.

Finding Europe’s Eastern Border: The European Union in Times of War

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.

The State of the European Union 2022

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.

Zeitenwende – A turning point or more of the same?

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.

A Citizens’ Europe: Views from the European Parliament

This panel discussion, organised with the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland, explores the European Parliament’s role in shaping economic, cultural, sport and digital policies and their impacts for citizens.

The Future of Fiscal Policy Post-COVID

As the EU undergoes an important debate regarding the future of its fiscal rules, the IIEA will welcome Nobel Laureate economist Joseph E. Stiglitz, University Professor at Columbia University, who will share his perspective on what role fiscal policy should play in a post-pandemic world.

The Brussels Effect: How the European Union Rules the World

A webinar keynote address by Columbia Law Professor Anu Bradford on “The Brussels Effect” and the geopolitical competition to regulate the world economy between the EU, US and China.

Pandemonium: Europe’s Covid Response

A webinar keynote address by Luuk van Middelaar on the geopolitical context and consequences of Europe’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its implications for the EU and the world.

The Conference on the Future of Europe - The Role of the European Parliament

This keynote address and panel discussion, organised with the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland, explores what the Conference on the Future of Europe may mean for Ireland and the EU.

Is it Tomorrow Yet? How the Pandemic Changes Europe

A keynote address by Ivan Krastev on how the COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the European Union and marks the true beginning of the 21st century.

What is the Art of the Deal and Can Europe Master it?

In his address to the IIEA, Hans Kribbe will discuss both the need for making deals with strongmen like Xi, Putin and Erdogan and the type of diplomacy that such deal making requires.

The Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland: The SDLP perspective

Matthew O’Toole discusses the SDLP’s vision for implementation of the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland as well as the challenges and opportunities ahead in Northern Ireland in a post-Brexit world.

The Future of the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy

This keynote address by European Commissioner for Agriculture, Janusz Wojciechowski, will explore the future of the EU’s common agricultural policy, in context of the EU’s social, environmental and economic goals.

The EU’s Economic Recovery and Resilience: The Role of the European Parliament

This panel discussion, organised with the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland, will explore the European Parliament’s role in shaping the EU’s and Ireland’s economic recovery from COVID-19 and future resilience.

Understanding the Productivity Growth Slowdown: Europe Chasing the American Frontier

In his address to the IIEA, Prof. Robert J. Gordon, Stanley G. Harris Professor in the Social Sciences and Professor of Economics at Northwestern University, provides an interpretation of rapid productivity growth during the pandemic of 2020-21 and the likely trajectory of growth in the 2020s.

The Implementation of the Protocol on Ireland / Northern Ireland

Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič discusses the implementation of the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland as well as the challenges and opportunities ahead in EU-UK relations post-Brexit.

Europe is our Future: Embedding Your Business in the EU

The final webinar of the Europe is our Future series will discuss embedding and integrating your business within the EU Single Market, taking advantage of the move to EU centric supply chains, the single currency and a more digital and sustainable business environment.

Fostering a Fair Recovery and Building Resilience: The Path Forward for Ireland and the EU

In this joint address, which is co-organised by the IIEA and the European Commission Representation in Ireland, Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni and Minister Michael McGrath will discuss how NextGenerationEU will support a transformation in Irish society and foster a resilient and fair recovery across the EU.

Ireland and Wales: A New Era in an Age-Old Relationship

First Minister Mark Drakeford will share his vision for Ireland-Wales relations in the context of the Ireland-Wales Shared Statement and Joint Action Plan as well as Brexit

The State of the European Union 2021

The Role of Research and Innovation in an Age of Pandemics

In this IIEA armchair discussion with Professor Peter Piot, Special Advisor on COVID-19 to the President of the European Commission, this discussion will focus on the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic at EU-level from a health policy perspective to evaluate the role of research and innovation (R&I) during the health crisis.

Belarus on the Brink. What Now?

Priorities of the Slovenian Presidency of the EU

Minister Logar outlines the priorities for Slovenia’s Presidency of the European Union in 2021 in the context of the political, economic and health challenges facing the EU.

Europe is our Future: Developing Sales and Marketing for a European Audience

This webinar, which is the second in the Europe is Our Future series, explores business sales and marketing strategies to engage a wider European audience.

 Kick-Starting a Climate-Friendly Prosperity

A webinar address from Dr. Franziska Brantner, Parliamentary Secretary and Spokesperson for European Affairs and member of the German Bundestag for Alliance 90/The Greens on the Green vision for Germany.

Vision and Values: The Future of the Eurozone in a Changing World

Vice-President and Minister for Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation of Spain, Nadia Calviño discusses the future of fiscal policy in the euro area, whether the NextGenerationEU recovery fund represents a “Hamiltonian” moment, and outlines how the Eurozone can play a leading role in shaping economic policy on the international stage.

Beyond Merkel – The Future of Germany in an Age of Uncertainty

A webinar address from Director and CEO of the German Council on Foreign Relations, Cathryn Cluver Ashbrook, on the future outlook for Germany and the EU in the post-Merkel era.

Webinar: The Future for Northern Ireland and Relations on These Islands

Tommie Gorman will reflect on the peace process, North-South relations, British-Irish relations, the tenability of the Protocol and the prospect of a united Ireland in the current context.

Protecting Citizens and Freedoms: The Justice Priorities of the Portuguese Presidency  

A webinar address from Secretary of State for Justice of Portugal, Anabela Pedroso, on the justice priorities of the Portuguese Presidency, which has focused primarily on protecting citizens and freedoms.

Europe in 2021: French Perspectives

The French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Yves Le Drian and French Minister of State for European Affairs, Clément Beaune, offer a French perspective on the future direction of the European Union.

Monetary Policy in Transition

In his address to the IIEA, Governor of the Bank of Portugal Mário Centeno assesses the monetary and fiscal policy responses of the European Union to the Coronavirus pandemic.

The Untapped Potential of the Single Market for Irish Enterprise

This webinar, which is the first in the Europe is Our Future series, co-organised by the IIEA and Enterprise Ireland, explores the previously untapped opportunities for Irish businesses within the Single Market.

The Role of Think Tanks in the Age of Misinformation

Marking the IIEA’s 30th Anniversary, the IIEA gathers heads of leading European think tanks to discuss the spread of misinformation on the era of so-called ‘fake news’ and the challenges this poses for policymakers, thinktanks and civil society.

Ireland in a Changing European Union

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin reflects on what EU membership has meant for Ireland, considers implications of recent changes, including Brexit, and set out Ireland's ambitions in and for the European Union.

State of the Union

Minister Coveney delivers a ‘State of the Union’ address, in which he assesses the role of the EU in recent crises, and provides a perspective on the future.

Finance for the Future: A Europe Day Address by Commissioner Mairead McGuinness

Commissioner McGuinness will reflect on the impact of the COVID pandemic on how we bank and access finance and will assess the role of the financial system in meeting our Green Deal goals for a more green and digital future.

WEBINAR: Global Britain in a Competitive Age: A Vision for the UK

Minister Morton discusses the UK Integrated Review of security, defence, development and foreign policy.

WEBINAR: Responding to Challenges and Looking to the Future

Minister for Public Expenditure & Reform, Michael McGrath TD will discuss the Irish Government’s response to the challenges of Brexit and the global pandemic in a broader European and international setting.

Towards European Strategic Autonomy?

A webinar address by Jim Cloos, Secretary-General of the Trans European Policy Studies Association (TEPSA), on European strategic autonomy.

WEBINAR: Towards European Strategic Autonomy?

WEBINAR: Women in Politics: A Global Perspective on Equal Participation and Decision-Making

This joint event organised by the IIEA and the French Embassy in Ireland will focus on the theme of women in politics, taking a global perspective on equal representation.

Building a Competitive, Innovative and Resilient European Economy

WEBINAR: The EMA’s Regulatory Role in the Global Response to COVID-19

Strengthening Europe’s Health Capacity

Digital Tax: Addressing the Challenges

A Keynote Address by William Hague

Webinar: Keynote Address by Michel Barnier

WEBINAR: What next for Belarus?

Recommendations for a Sustainable & Fair Recovery in Ireland and Europe

This joint IIEA and European Commission seminar will discuss the 2020 Country Specific Recommendations in the context of an increased focus on how to deliver a smart, sustainable and fair recovery.

‘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

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.

The 2024 Portuguese Elections: A Swing to the Right

Updating Democracy: Ireland’s Electoral Commission

The 2022 Danish Elections: Social Democrats Secure

The 2022 Swedish Elections: The Sweden Democrats Come in From the Cold 

Bello Ciao: Looking Ahead to the 2022 Italian Elections

‘Can Anyone Hear Us?’ -  Reflections on the Conference on the Future of Europe

The 2022 Slovenian Elections Landslide for the Insurgents

The 2022 Hungarian Elections: Orbán Renewal

 The 2022 Maltese Elections: Labour Landslide

The 2022 Portuguese Elections: The Centre-Left Consolidates Power

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?

The Outcome of the German Elections – Continuity and Change?

Beyond Borissov? The Possible Implications of the Bulgarian Parliamentary Election for the EU and Ireland.

The European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan

What are the implications of the Dutch parliamentary election results for Ireland and the EU?

Strategic cacophony or strategic autonomy? - Reflections on EU Foreign Policy

The Opening of Ireland’s Accession Negotiations: Fifty Years On

Compliance & COVID-19: Reforming EU Fiscal Rules

After COVID-19, the Irish Economy faces huge challenges

Between Rhetoric and Action: German Leadership in the EU’s Economic Response

A Strong Social Europe for a Just Transition

Mirroring the EU’s Strategic Agenda: The Irish Roadmap for Social Inclusion

Confronting COVID-19: The ECB Response

Vision or Reality – Macron’s European Renaissance

Pushing the Envelope: The EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework for 2021-2027

Can EU Enlargement to the Western Balkans be revitalised?

All Eyes on Brussels as MFF Negotiations Enter Crucial Stage

A Strong Europe in a World of Challenges: Croatian Presidency EU

The Challenge of Multilateralism

Social Europe in the New Strategic Agenda

An EU Approach to AI:  from Ethics Guidelines to Policy and Investment Recommendations