Conference on the Future of Transatlantic Relations

Through four distinct panel discussions, the conference will address pressing issues at the forefront of transatlantic relations. From charting pathways for green transition and sustainable growth to navigating the complex terrain of regulating emerging technologies, the panels will explore the multifaceted dimensions of transatlantic cooperation and contention.

In an era marked by rapid climate change, escalating inequality, ongoing wars in Europe and the Middle East, and the disruptive forces of technological advancement, the discussions will examine collaborative opportunities, tensions, and divergent approaches to these global challenges.

The conference will aim to shape a more resilient and interconnected transatlantic community in the face of shared global imperatives and uncertainties.

The event is open to the Sciences Po community, as well as to external audiences (subject to availability). It will take place in-person at Sciences Po, and will likewise be livestreamed for all those who wish to follow remotely. 

Professor Marc Ringel, Chairholder of the European Chair for Sustainable Development and Climate Transition, will take part in Panel 1: Making Transatlantic Relations Green.

CONFERENCE PROGRAMME (5 April 2024)

OPENING REMARKS (09:00)

• Arancha González, Dean, Paris School of International Affairs, Sciences Po
• Sergei Guriev, Provost, Sciences Po
• Joel Hellman, Dean, Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service
• Francis Vella, Professor and Edmond V. Villani Chair in Economics, Special Advisor to the Georgetown University President for International Engagement

KEYNOTE SPEECH (09:15-10:30)

• Enrico Letta, President of the Jacques Delors Institute, former Dean of PSIA, former Prime Minister of Italy

PANEL 1: MAKING TRANSATLANTIC RELATIONS GREEN (10:30-12:00)

Leading experts and academics will discuss the future of green transition in the context of transatlantic relations. This will include an examination of innovative strategies and possible policy frameworks aimed at achieving sustainable development goals while mitigating climate change. How can transatlantic cooperation drive a greener and more resilient future?

Panel moderated by Natacha Valla, Dean, School of Management and Impact, Sciences Po

• Vishal Agrawal, Henry J. Blommer Family Endowed Chair in Sustainable Business and Professor of Operations Management at the McDonough School of Business, Georgetown University
• Anne Epaulard, Director, Economy & Environment Department, OFCE, Sciences Po
• Philip Kearns, Ex-Chief Investment Officer, D.E. Shaw Investment Management
• Marc Ringel, Chairholder at the European Chair for Sustainable Development and Climate Transition, Sciences Po

PANEL 2: THE FUTURE OF TRANSATLANTIC DIGITAL REGULATION (13:00-14:30)

Panellists will delve into the evolving landscape of digital regulation across the Atlantic. From data privacy and cybersecurity to platform accountability and emerging technologies, this session will explore the challenges and opportunities inherent in regulating the digital sphere. How can policy foster innovation while ensuring a fair and competitive digital economy in the transatlantic context?

Panel moderated by Michelle De Mooy, Program Director, Tech and Public Policy Program, McCourt School of Public Policy, Georgetown University

• Beatriz Botero Arcila, Assistant professor of law at Sciences Po and an affiliate at the Berkman Klein Center at Harvard University
• Alissa Cooper, Inaugural Executive Director, Knight–Georgetown Institute
• Constance de Leusse, Executive Director, Tech and Global Affairs Innovation Hub, Paris School of International Affairs
• Paul Nemitz, Principal Adviser on the Digital Transition in DG Justice and Consumers, EU Commission

PANEL 3: DEFENCE AND SECURITY COOPERATION (15:00-16:30)

Join a thought-provoking panel discussion on defence and security cooperation in the transatlantic realm. As geopolitical dynamics shift and global threats evolve, this panel will explore the importance of robust alliances, strategic partnerships, and shared defence capabilities in safeguarding peace and stability in an increasingly complex security environment.

Panel moderated by Antonio Missiroli, former NATO Assistant Secretary-General, responsible for Emerging Security Challenges, PSIA faculty member

• Keir A Lieber, Professor in the School of Foreign Service and Department of Government at Georgetown University
• Bryan Rich, Global AI Lead for Accenture Defense and Public Service
• Chiara Ruffa, Professor of Political Science at the Centre for International Studies, Sciences Po

PANEL 4: DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION (17:00-18:30)

This session will consider the critical role of transatlantic cooperation in driving sustainable development and economic prosperity. From foreign aid and humanitarian assistance to trade policies and investment strategies, examine the synergies and challenges inherent in promoting development goals on both sides of the Atlantic. The panel will discuss innovative approaches to poverty reduction, social inclusion, and equitable growth.

Panel moderated by Sergei Guriev, Provost and Professor of Economics, Sciences Po

• Joel Hellman, Dean of the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service 
• Karen Macours, Chaired Professor at the Paris School of Economics, senior researcher at the French National Research Institute for Agriculture

CONCLUDING REMARKS (18:30-19:00)

• Arancha González, Dean, Paris School of International Affairs
• Joel Hellman, Dean, Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service

ORGANIZERS

The conference is co-organised by the Paris School of International Affairs, the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service and the Georgetown Global Economic Challenges Network.

For more information, including details on how to register, please refer to the event website.