The European Union in a Troubled World

Abstract

The European Union (EU) is navigating a world of geopolitical tensions, economic volatility, and social fragmentation. The year 2024 is crucial, with key elections in the EU and the United States set to reshape transatlantic relationships. Arancha González, dean of the Paris School of International Affairs Sciences Po and former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Spain, will analyze the EU’s current position and strategies.

Key topics include the rise of nationalism and populism within member states, the EU’s approach to migration and integration, and challenges facing the new EU Commission. The lecture will also explore the EU’s diplomatic and economic relations with major global powers like the United States, China, and Russia.

The lecture aims to highlight the EU’s potential as a stabilizing force and its capacity to influence global governance, offering insights into its policy responses and strategic initiatives.

Programme

• Awarding of diplomas to the 2024 PhD graduates
• Awarding of the SIS Distinguished Teaching Award
• Arancha González Laya (Sciences Po) - The European Union in a Troubled World

Speaker

Arancha González Laya - Sciences Po

Bio

Arancha González Laya is the Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA) at Sciences Po. She has extensive knowledge of international relations, trade, and economics, and broad experience in European institutions and multilateral organizations. Before joining PSIA, she served as Spain's Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation (2020-2021). Previously, she was Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the International Trade Center (2013-2019). From 2005 to 2013, she was Chief of Staff to the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Pascal Lamy, and his representative (Sherpa) to the G-20. Prior to that, she held senior positions at the European Commission in the areas of international trade and development. She began her career in the private sector as an associate in a law firm advising companies on trade, competition, and state aid matters. She is a member of the Mission Committee of the Danone Group and a member of the International Advisory Council of The European House-Ambrosetti. Of Spanish nationality, she holds a law degree from the University of Navarra and a postgraduate diploma in European law from the Carlos III University of Madrid.