Virtual #BarTalkEurope: Digital and sustainable – Europe's path to recovery

The next #BarTalkEurope took place virtually on 8 December 2020 under the theme "Digital and sustainable: Europe's path to recovery". The event was organised by "Repair and Prepare: Strengthening Europe", a joint project of the Bertelsmann Foundation and the Jacques Delors Centre. 

The Corona crisis remains at the heart of political efforts. In a historic agreement, the EU and its Member States have agreed on a €750 billion strong recovery fund. The aim is to help the economy to recover quickly and become more resilient in the long run. According to the EU Commission, this requires a green and digital transformation in Europe. But it is not yet clear how individual member states will implement these targets in their national reform plans. The question remains how this transformation can succeed. Should sustainability and digitisation be considered separately or are they two sides of the same coin? 

At the start of #BarTalkEurope, Natascha Hainbach and Philipp Schulz from the Bertelsmann Foundation discussed with experts the question of which sustainable measures could strengthen economic resilience in Europe and at the same time ensure a rapid recovery from the current crisis. Maarja Kask from the Jacques Delors Centre then presented a short input on European funding for research, innovation and digital infrastructure. Lucas Guttenberg, Deputy Director of the Jacques Delors Centre, then moderated the stimulating question and answer session and the discussion with the participants.

The next edition of #BarTalkEurope is planned for spring 2021.