Recharge Europe
EFA25: 16 to 29 August 2025
Eighty years after the end of the Second World War, Europe stands at a crossroads.
The values that shaped post-war Europe – democracy, human rights, rule of law and social market economies – are being tested in an era defined by rapid technological change, geopolitical shifts and an existential ecological crisis. Europe needs a fresh burst of energy. As the global competition for influence, resources and innovation intensifies, Europe’s response must go beyond defending past achievements. It must promote an ambitious vision for the future.
At the European Forum Alpbach 2025, we will explore how Europe can forge a path that combines competitiveness with its values and unique strengths. Together we will work on a dynamic European model that inspires and leads while preserving what is good and beautiful about our continent: from climate leadership and economic innovation to strengthening our democracies and ensuring our security in a volatile world. Together, we will renew Europe’s potential.
A shared vision for a comprehensive renewal of Europe galvanised the founders of the European Forum Alpbach eighty years ago. Their approach is no less valid today. To ensure lasting peace and prosperity, Europe must continue to reinvent itself, rooted in values that go beyond economic metrics.
Join us at the EFA25 to recharge Europe: an energised Europe that preserves its foundational principles while embracing change to build a better future for all. Proud of what it stands for. Ready for what is to come.
The Thematic Tracks at EFA25:
Climate
Climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution are defining challenges of this century. Europe has made a commitment to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. Reaching climate targets and exercising global leadership is becoming ever more challenging in light of a shifting political focus. Cross-sector and border collaboration and a focus on the economic opportunities of the transition are urgently needed. Europe must act and implement with greater unity than ever before, capturing hearts and minds, and transforming markets as it does.
- Europe in the World Days: Collaborate to Compete: Making the Climate Transformation Real
- Austria in Europe Days: United in Emergency: Towards a Stronger Climate and Energy Union
Finance and Economy
The European economy is facing a number of challenges caused by geopolitical shifts, technological advances and climate change. Long-standing deficiencies such as slow growth, rising unemployment, stagnating productivity and demographic pressures further jeopardise Europe's prosperity. The Finance and Economy track explores possible solutions to these multifaceted challenges that threaten Europe's role in the world, aiming to strengthen its competitiveness and secure the financing of its future prosperity.
- Europe in the World Days: Innovation as Europe's Competitive Edge in Global Transformations
- Austria in Europe Days: Regaining Competitiveness: A Call for Action
Security
The rise of military conflicts, dynamic shifts in Europe’s neighborhood, and the new U.S. administration coupled with the emergence of new blocs, induce a disintegration of global governance. This necessitates a reassessment of multilateral institutions and the international security framework. Europe must assert itself as a strategic actor by enhancing its geopolitical influence, boosting security and defence, and reducing dependencies. The new geopolitical reality demands a decisive, unified EU response to navigate an increasingly fragmented global landscape.
- Europe in the World Days: Geopolitical Realignment: Asserting Europe's Role in a Contested World of Power Politics
- Austria in Europe Days: Towards a European Defence Union: Goals, Roles and Responsibilities
Democracy and the Rule of Law
After decades of expansion, democracy is in a worldwide decline. Liberal democracy is on the defensive under internal and external pressure. We are witnessing polarisation and the rise of populism and authoritarian politics. Disinformation and deep mistrust in governments and media are crucial factors. Democratic institutions and processes must be strengthened. Global alliances of democratic states, civil society and experts need to mobilise to develop solutions suited to today’s information and technology context.
- Europe in the World Days: People and Power: Strengthening Truth and Trust
- Austria in Europe Days: Democracy and Rule of Law in the Digital Age: AI, Disinformation and Media
Selection of Speakers
Beate Meinl-Reisinger
Edgars Rinkevics
Peter R. Neumann
Tim Crane
Cesy Leonard
Katarina Barley
Julia Ebner
Anna Buchegger
Sigrid Stagl
Cédric Villani
Mario Nava
Sabine Weyand
Alexander Van der Bellen
Clara Raposo
Klaas Knot
Axel van Trotsenburg
Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann
Ivan Krastev
Michael O'Flaherty
Josef Aschbacher
Magnus Brunner
Joseph E. Stiglitz
Jessika Roswall
Christian Stocker
Robert Brieger
Irena Radović
Modules
Euregio Days
The Forum for people who want to find regional solutions to global problems.
People from the Euregio Tyrol–South Tyrol–Trentino are addressing global challenges in competitiveness and regional development, focussing on cross-border cooperation, with best-practice examples from the region.
Participation in the Euregio Days is free of charge, although you will need an admission ticket.
Alpbach Seminars
The Forum for outstanding young talents to learn, debate and engage.
Each year, EFA awards about 500 scholarships to young people. The Alpbach Seminars offer five days of inspirational and thought-provoking sessions, expanding horizons and fostering learning.
Lab Days
The Forum for innovative minds to collaborate and create solutions in focused sessions.
Selected experts (by invitation only) collaborate in closed sessions, working on predetermined issues and tackling specific challenges.
Europe in the World Days
The Forum for Europeans who drive ideas for a strong and democratic Europe.
Key actors of European politics, the economy, science and culture meet in Alpbach for the season kick-off. In dialogue with international thought leaders, they address global issues and explore Europe’s role in the world through innovative formats such as hikes, workshops and rituals.
Austria in Europe Days
The Forum for those shaping the EU’s future from a national perspective.
Marking the start of Austria’s political season, the Austria in Europe Days focus on the role of EU member states in Europe and internal EU challenges. Key figures from civil society, business, and parliament engage proactively with the next generation in Alpbach and broaden their networks.
EFA25 Programme
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