Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Brussels Playbook Podcast! In this first installment, hosts Zoya Sheftalovich and Ian Wishart delve into two pressing issues currently confronting Brussels: the extent of the EU’s commitment to integrating Ukraine and the urgent need for Europe to address its economic stagnation.
Ukraine’s path to EU membership
As discussions of a potential peace agreement intensify and geopolitical uncertainties surrounding the U.S. linger, EU officials are quietly considering unconventional strategies to bring Ukraine closer to the European Union, possibly as early as next year. The prospect of Ukraine’s EU membership is gaining traction, reflecting a shift in the bloc’s approach to enlargement.
Reviving Europe’s economic competitiveness
In addition to the focus on Ukraine, the podcast addresses the sluggish nature of Europe’s economy. With a leaders’ retreat approaching, EU capitals face mounting pressure to stimulate economic growth and dismantle longstanding internal barriers that have hindered progress for years. Ian and Zoya further discuss the implications of recent closures of iconic Irish pubs, Kitty O’Shea’s and De Valera’s, two well-known venues in Brussels that have historically served as informal gathering places for political discourse.
“Where are people now going instead?”
Listeners are encouraged to share their suggestions, anecdotes, or even voice notes about alternative spots for such informal discussions. Submissions can remain anonymous, and messages can be sent via WhatsApp at +32 491 05 06 29.
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