Some studies have recently indicated that the number of countries classified as democracies are decreasing whereas authoritarian regimes are at the forefront. And also within our societies are we increasingly witnessing disturbing signs of violent confrontation on the streets and verbal hate speech in the so called social media. In some European states we are witnessing policy-makers and citizens embracing elements of illiberal democracy and authoritarianism. How do these trends impact the future of democracy in the EU, in Europe? What are the perspectives of living together in a united Europe that is facing severe pressure from such megatrends as the climate crisis, military conflict and migration from inflicted countries, big tech controlling social media? How can we ensure that the project of democracy in the context of European peace after WWII will continue in the future? For the next 60 years? How can we give other actors a voice that we have neglected so far such as nature and future generations? What aspects for research and innovation policy arise from these developments?

On behalf of Horizon Europe project “Eye of Europe” we are offering a half-day online workshop for a maximum of 60 participants. The “Eye of Europe” project features a series of Pilot workshops during 2025 to explore future prospects for foresight and R&I policy.