EFA25 Programme
Discover the programme of EFA25. The programme and list of speakers will be updated continuously. We look forward to seeing you in Alpbach!
Speakers Selection
Mario Nava
Josef Aschbacher
Rumman Chowdhury
Anders Wijkman
Beate Meinl-Reisinger
Christian Stocker
Ivan Krastev
Robert Brieger
Magnus Brunner
Samir Saran
Tim Crane
Cédric Villani
Ian Goldin
Sabine Weyand
Julia Ebner
Michael O'Flaherty
Alexander Van der Bellen
Anna Buchegger
Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann
Gerda Holzinger-Burgstaller
Maria Luís Albuquerque
Peter Bosek
Fritzi Köhler-Geib
Sigrid Stagl
Yascha Mounk
Edgars Rinkevics
Irena Radović
Axel van Trotsenburg
Joseph E. Stiglitz
Clara Raposo
Modules
Programme
All times in CEST
Austria in Europe Days
Tuesday, 26. August
Early morning
Noon
Noon
WoW* Connects: A Networking Hour for Women*
As part of the EFA World of Women* initiative, EFA is taking extra efforts to encourage female* contributors, both in programming and participation. Every day, from the Europe in the World Days to the Austria in Europe Days, two dedicated hours will be hosted by women* engaged in EFA’s broader network, which offers the opportunity to connect, reflect, and act. // INFO: To ensure a focused and engaging experience, we wont be providing any catering. Participants are, however, free to order lunch and beverages at their own cost. //
12:15
-
13:45
WoW* Connects: A Networking Hour for Women*
Network
Brown Bag Lunch
Join us for an informal discussion format in the EFA Loggia that is exclusively hosted by our Media Partners together with one or two speakers. Be quick - the first participants ge a free brown bag lunch! Join us for an informal discussion format in the EFA Loggia that is exclusively hosted by our Media Partners together with one or two speakers. Be quick - the first participants ge a free brown bag lunch!
12:15
-
13:45
Brown Bag Lunch
Content
Afternoon
Wednesday, 27. August
Early morning
Morning
Morning
Green and Competitive: Can Europe Lead on Both Fronts?
Europe aims to be both a global economic leader and a sustainability champion, but can it achieve both? The European Commission’s Competitiveness Compass offers a strategic roadmap, yet balancing competitiveness with ambitious climate and sustainability goals remains a critical challenge. Discuss the tensions and trade-offs Europe must navigate.
09:00
-
10:00
Green and Competitive: Can Europe Lead on Both Fronts?
+1
FIN
Content
Disinformation Foresight Exercise: Anticipate and Counteract
In this workshop, you engage in a foresight exercise to predict how disinformation tactics and technologies might evolve over the next decade. Explore emerging trends in disinformation and brainstorm potential future scenarios. Anticipate challenges and develop innovative strategies to counteract future forms of disinformation.
09:00
-
12:00
Disinformation Foresight Exercise: Anticipate and Counteract
+1
DEM
Content
Hike | Sovereignty by Design: Europe’s Critical Capabilities
Future European defence depends on strategic enablers – space, cyber, dual-use innovation, and resilient industries. Drawing upon European Defence Industrial Strategy and the Defence White Paper, this hike discusses how Europe can build critical capabilities to strengthen sovereignty and readiness by 2030.//INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water. //INFO: In case of heavy rain, the session is going to take place at Volksschule (Upperfloor Class 1).
09:00
-
12:00
Hike | Sovereignty by Design: Europe’s Critical Capabilities
SEC
Content
Befriending Our Future Selves: From Imagination to Action
We often think of our future self as a single version of ourselves that is distant and separate. But our futures are multiple and shaped by the people, systems, and choices around us - and they are deeply interconnected. In this workshop, we’ll use creative methods to rethink financial wellbeing as something shared, not just personal. Together, we’ll come up with ideas that people, organisations and communities can try out to support healthier and more connected financial futures.
09:00
-
12:00
Befriending Our Future Selves: From Imagination to Action
+2
FIN
Content
Hike | A Union of People and Generations: Teaming Up for Europe’s Green Future
Tackling the climate crisis requires intergenerational alliances. Uniting long-term wisdom with innovative solutions can drive inclusive climate action, strengthen social cohesion, and ensure that no one is left behind in Europe’s green transition. //INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water. //INFO: In case of heavy rain, the session is going to take place at Volksschule (Upper floor Class 2).
09:00
-
12:00
Hike | A Union of People and Generations: Teaming Up for Europe’s Green Future
CLI
Content
Noon
Noon
Track Forum: Democracy
Come and meet fellow participants who share an interest for the Democracy track. Get to know each other at lunch and debate the current programme highlights and main controversies so far. //INFO: Lunch and drinks are at your own expense. Please be on time at 12:15 so you have enough time to order comfortably. Three dishes are to choose from.
12:15
-
13:45
Track Forum: Democracy
DEM
Network
Track Forum: Finance
Come and meet fellow participants who share an interest for the Finance and Economy track. Get to know each other at lunch and debate the current programme highlights and main controversies so far. //INFO: Lunch and drinks are at your own expense. Please be on time at 12:15 so you have enough time to order comfortably. Three dishes are to choose from.
12:15
-
13:45
Track Forum: Finance
FIN
Network
WoW* Connects: A Networking Hour for Women*
As part of the EFA World of Women* initiative, EFA is taking extra efforts to encourage female* contributors, both in programming and participation. Every day, from the Europe in the World Days to the Austria in Europe Days, two dedicated hours will be hosted by women* engaged in EFA’s broader network, which offers the opportunity to connect, reflect, and act. // INFO: To ensure a focused and engaging experience, we wont be providing any catering. Participants are, however, free to order lunch and beverages at their own cost. //
12:15
-
13:45
WoW* Connects: A Networking Hour for Women*
Network
Brown Bag Lunch
Join us for an informal discussion format in the EFA Loggia that is exclusively hosted by our Media Partners together with one or two speakers. Be quick - the first participants ge a free brown bag lunch!
12:15
-
13:45
Brown Bag Lunch
Content
RADA’s Pop-up Theatre of Values
Experience a captivating promenade theatre about European values, directed by the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA). Immerse yourself in an interactive performance that actively engages you and offers new perspectives on key themes such as democracy, freedom and solidarity.
12:30
-
13:30
RADA’s Pop-up Theatre of Values
Network
Afternoon
Afternoon
Skills Matter: Shaping the Workforce of Tomorrow
AI, automation, and rapid technological change are transforming the workforce. Which skills will define resilience and success in tomorrow’s labour market? Explore how we can prepare for the labour market of tomorrow – and what policies are needed to equip people with the skills to thrive in an increasingly automated world.
14:00
-
15:00
Skills Matter: Shaping the Workforce of Tomorrow
+2
FIN
Content
Energy Without Borders: Building Europe’s Clean Powerhouse
A unified Energy Union could supercharge Europe’s security, economy, and climate resilience. Discover how cross-border cooperation and smart innovation can light the way towards a clean, interconnected European energy future – and what political courage it will take to get there.
14:00
-
15:00
Energy Without Borders: Building Europe’s Clean Powerhouse
CLI
Content
Hike | Free Speech Weaponised: Rights, Regulation and Censorship
Free speech is a cornerstone of democracy, but the expression itself is increasingly weaponised to legitimise extremism and curtail freedoms. Engage in the complex debate on how to defend free speech without enabling its abuse – and how democracies can strike the right balance.//INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water. //INFO: In case of heavy rain, the session is going to take place at Volksschule (Upper floor Class 1).
14:00
-
16:30
Hike | Free Speech Weaponised: Rights, Regulation and Censorship
+1
DEM
Content
Creating new spaces
Co-create visions and potential solutions for a better future using artistic methods, tools and expertise. In this workshop you will join an architect, a writer and an expert to build new physical and metaphorical spaces together.
14:00
-
17:00
Creating new spaces
ART
CLI
Content
Hike | Securing Europe in the Digital Age: Hybrid Threats and Democratic Values
Hybrid threats - cyberattacks, disinformation, infrastructure sabotage - challenge Europe's security and democratic integrity in the digital age. This hike explores how Europe can protect critical infrastructure, balance dual-use challenges, and uphold democratic principles while responding to emerging cyber and information threats. //INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water. //INFO: In case of heavy rain, the session is going to take place at Volksschule (Upperfloor Class 2).
14:00
-
16:30
Hike | Securing Europe in the Digital Age: Hybrid Threats and Democratic Values
SEC
Content
Executive Talk with Dieter Pscheidl - The Potential for Simplification in EU Financial Regulation
The EU is repeatedly confronted with criticism of excessive regulation in a wide range of areas. In order to remain competitive and actionable, it is essential to simplify these regulations. In this high-level discussion, possibilities for simplifying regulations in the financial sector will be discussed. The session explores key issues — from the European Green Deal to the Capital Markets Union and (In)Solvency, Recovery and Resolution matters - offering strategic exchange and potential for broader impact.
15:30
-
17:00
Executive Talk with Dieter Pscheidl - The Potential for Simplification in EU Financial Regulation
FIN
Content
Making European Climate Action Great Again: A Culture Shock
Fear alone will not drive climate action. Culture, creativity and new narratives can inspire agency, overcome division, and turn climate action into Europe’s most powerful and unifying movement for hope and leadership.
17:00
-
18:00
Making European Climate Action Great Again: A Culture Shock
+1
CLI
Content
Towards a European Defence Union: Strategic Realism in Practice
Europe’s shift towards realpolitik is reshaping its security strategy. This session analyses the lessons of past European defence initiatives, the future of deterrence, and the way Europe must strengthen its military posture to protect its sovereignty and alliances.
17:00
-
18:00
Towards a European Defence Union: Strategic Realism in Practice
SEC
Content
Evening
Evening
Bold Ideas to Recharge Europe: Vote for the Future!
Join us in shaping the future of Europe! From climate crisis to technological disruption and populist pressures, Europe stands at a crossroads. In this dynamic pitch session, help select the boldest, most promising ideas to chart a re:charged future for Europe.
18:30
-
19:30
Bold Ideas to Recharge Europe: Vote for the Future!
DEM
Content
Women Economic Summit
More information will follow.
20:00
-
22:00
Women Economic Summit
Network
Concert: Anna Buchegger
Join us for a special evening in the unique surroundings of Alpbach's baroque church. Anna Buchegger is known for incorporating traditional imagery and elements in her performances. She combines alpine folklore with modern effects and creates a unique melange that appeals to both older and younger generations. //INFO: Limited number of seats available. Please note that drinking from open cups/bottles and eating is not permitted.
20:00
-
22:00
Concert: Anna Buchegger
+1
ART
Network
Thursday, 28. August
Early morning
Early morning
Morning Sports: Functional Fitness
Start the day with a boost of energy! The trainers of the Austrian Armed Forces will get you sweating with military functional fitness on the forecourt of the CCA - an ideal way to recover from stress and prevent burnout or illness.
07:00
-
08:00
Morning Sports: Functional Fitness
Rituals
EFA – Into the Silence
A place of calm: Spiritual impulses from various religious and philosophical backgrounds invite you to contemplate and reflect. Inspiring initiators tell their stories, take you on a journey of the mind and initiate moments of genuine stillness.
08:00
-
08:30
EFA – Into the Silence
Rituals
Morning
Morning
Hike | Ageing Europe: Can Europe Afford to Grow Old?
Europe is ageing – and its pension systems are under increasing strain. With smaller workforces and longer life expectancies, the challenge is to ensure long-term sustainability and intergenerational fairness. Explore how reimagining retirement can recharge Europe’s social and economic future. //INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water.//INFO: In case of heavy rain, the session is going to take place at Volksschule (Upperfloor Class 2).
09:00
-
12:00
Hike | Ageing Europe: Can Europe Afford to Grow Old?
FIN
Content
Hike | The Social Dilemma: Impact on Society and Reclaiming Control
Social media platforms and their enabling technologies are reshaping mental health, democracy and society. Examine the social dilemma they pose – and discuss what political, societal, and personal actions are needed to reclaim agency in the digital age between openness to technological advances and need for self-determination. //INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water. //INFO: In case of heavy rain, the session is going to take place at Volksschule (Upper floor Class 1).
09:00
-
12:00
Hike | The Social Dilemma: Impact on Society and Reclaiming Control
+1
DEM
Content
A Food, Water and Nature Union: Europe’s Survival Plan
Integrating agriculture, water management, and nature restoration is key to securing Europe’s food systems and biodiversity. A unified approach can transform landscapes, foster a greener economy, and ensure long-term sustainability – if political will, fair transitions, and bold reforms align.
09:00
-
10:00
A Food, Water and Nature Union: Europe’s Survival Plan
+1
CLI
Content
The Price of Security: Defence, Democracy, and Societal Trade-offs
In this workshop, participants explore how Europe’s security ambitions affect the social contract. Discuss financing strategies such as war bonds, societal resilience, intergenerational perceptions of security and trade-offs to prepare for future defence realities.
09:00
-
12:00
The Price of Security: Defence, Democracy, and Societal Trade-offs
SEC
Content
The Future of Monetary Policy and Financial Markets in Europe
In an era of heightened geopolitical uncertainty and structural economic shifts, the future of monetary policy and financial markets in Europe faces unprecedented challenges. Leading central bankers will discuss how policy frameworks must adjust to a changing economic landscape, the evolving role of financial markets in supporting growth and stability, and the implications for monetary policy.
10:30
-
12:00
The Future of Monetary Policy and Financial Markets in Europe
+4
FIN
Content
Ukraine as a Cornerstone for Europe’s Security and Defence
In Europe, Ukraine is often seen as a petitioner and a recipient of aid. In reality, it has been safeguarding Europe’s security and freedom for more than three years. Today, Ukraine not only fields the largest and most battle-hardened army in Europe, it also covers 40% of its defence needs through domestic production and boasts a vibrant Mil-Tech ecosystem. Looking ahead, Ukraine therefore must be a cornerstone of the European security and defence architecture that must increasingly stand on its own.
10:30
-
12:00
Ukraine as a Cornerstone for Europe’s Security and Defence
SEC
Content
Noon
Noon
Track Forum: Climate
Come and meet fellow participants who share an interest for the Climate track. Get to know each other at lunch and debate the current programme highlights and main controversies so far. //INFO: Lunch and drinks are at your own expense. Please be on time at 12:15 so you have enough time to order comfortably. Three dishes are to choose from.
12:15
-
13:45
Track Forum: Climate
CLI
Network
Brown Bag Lunch
Join us for an informal discussion format in the EFA Loggia that is exclusively hosted by our Media Partners together with one or two speakers. Be quick - the first participants ge a free brown bag lunch!
12:15
-
13:45
Brown Bag Lunch
Content
WoW* Connects: A Networking Hour for Women*
As part of the EFA World of Women* initiative, EFA is taking extra efforts to encourage female* contributors, both in programming and participation. Every day, from the Europe in the World Days to the Austria in Europe Days, two dedicated hours will be hosted by women* engaged in EFA’s broader network, which offers the opportunity to connect, reflect, and act. // INFO: To ensure a focused and engaging experience, we wont be providing any catering. Participants are, however, free to order lunch and beverages at their own cost. //
12:15
-
13:45
WoW* Connects: A Networking Hour for Women*
Network
Afternoon
Afternoon
Hike | Attitudes Matter: How Attitudes Towards Work and Risk Shape Europe’s Competitiveness
Attitudes towards work, career paths, and risk are evolving across Europe. In some regions, high risk aversion can limit entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. Explore how cultural and societal narratives around work and risk-taking are shaping Europe’s ability to adapt, innovate, and thrive in a changing global landscape. //INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water.//INFO: In case of heavy rain, the session is going to take place at Volksschule (Upperfloor Class 2).
14:00
-
16:30
Hike | Attitudes Matter: How Attitudes Towards Work and Risk Shape Europe’s Competitiveness
+1
FIN
Content
European Digital Sovereignty in Times of Geopolitical Competition
As geopolitical tensions rise, Europe’s digital sovereignty becomes a strategic imperative. Explore how Europe can secure its technological independence— while safeguarding its values and autonomy.
14:00
-
15:00
European Digital Sovereignty in Times of Geopolitical Competition
+3
DEM
Content
Hike | A Green Industrial Policy for Europe’s Future
A Green Industrial Deal could make or break Europe’s competitiveness and climate leadership. Explore what it will take to drive sustainable industry, strengthen innovation ecosystems and win the new global race for a prosperous future. //INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water. //INFO: In case of heavy rain, the session is going to take place at Volksschule (Upper floor Class 1).
14:00
-
16:30
Hike | A Green Industrial Policy for Europe’s Future
CLI
Content
Cooperation and Intercultural Dialogue
Co-create visions and potential solutions for a better future using artistic methods, tools and expertise. In this workshop you will join performers and experts to redefine power politics through cooperation and intercultural dialogue.
14:00
-
17:00
Cooperation and Intercultural Dialogue
ART
SEC
Content
Hike | Energy Future: How Reliable Is Austria’s Power Supply?
Achieving climate neutrality by 2040 requires a realignment of our energy system. Renewable energy sources are being expanded on a large scale, while conventional power plants are gradually being phased out. But the central question of this transformation is how to ensure a stable and reliable energy supply — even during weather extremes — in a system powered by renewables. //INFO: Please bring hiking shoes and water. In case of bad weather, shuttles will bring you to the location.
14:00
-
17:00
Hike | Energy Future: How Reliable Is Austria’s Power Supply?
CLI
SEC
Content
Regenerative Agriculture: A Revolution or Just a Trend?
The agri-food system is under growing pressure due to climate risks and economic instability. A new approach is regenerative agriculture, focusing on practices aimed at protecting and improving soil health, biodiversity, climate, and water resources. The challenge for the new model is though: How can regenerative agriculture be scaled across Europe and which support do farmers need – and from whom?
14:00
-
15:30
Regenerative Agriculture: A Revolution or Just a Trend?
CLI
Content
Rallying a Union’s Defence: Collective Security and European Solidarity
This session focuses on the importance of institutional security and the role of the EU’s mutual assistance clause in shaping collective security. Explore how defence solidarity, different security cultures, and strategic autonomy debates shape Europe’s capacity to defend itself in a volatile world.
14:00
-
15:00
Rallying a Union’s Defence: Collective Security and European Solidarity
SEC
Content
Executive Talk with Jörg Spreitzer: Aligning Performance and Appreciation with the 5R-Method
In an era where Europe’s productivity increasingly depends on culture and leadership, this talk explores how trust-based workplaces consistently outperform their peers using the 5R Method: Revenue, Retention, Resilience, ROI, and Recognition. Drawing on insights from the European Workforce Study (EWS), it will be demonstrated how appreciation and organizational excellence serve as strategic drivers of sustainable economic success.
15:30
-
16:30
Executive Talk with Jörg Spreitzer: Aligning Performance and Appreciation with the 5R-Method
Content
Democracy in the Digital Age: Unmasking the Power of Deception
AI-generated content and algorithmic manipulation threaten informed public discourse. Examine how democracies can expose, counter, and navigate these challenges – for a resilient digital society.
17:00
-
18:00
Democracy in the Digital Age: Unmasking the Power of Deception
DEM
Content
Balancing the Books: Can Europe Afford Its Future?
Green transformation, defence, digitalisation – Europe’s ambitions are expensive. Are current budget frameworks fit for the scale of future challenges? Debate what it will take to finance a resilient, competitive Europe.
17:00
-
18:00
Balancing the Books: Can Europe Afford Its Future?
+3
FIN
Content
Evening
Friday, 29. August
Early morning
Early morning
Morning Sports: Functional Fitness
Start the day with a boost of energy! The trainers of the Austrian Armed Forces will get you sweating with military functional fitness on the forecourt of the CCA - an ideal way to recover from stress and prevent burnout or illness.
07:00
-
08:00
Morning Sports: Functional Fitness
Rituals
EFA – Into the Silence
A place of calm: Spiritual impulses from various religious and philosophical backgrounds invite you to contemplate and reflect. Inspiring initiators tell their stories, take you on a journey of the mind and initiate moments of genuine stillness.
08:00
-
08:30
EFA – Into the Silence
Rituals
Morning
Get your personalised programme
Create your own EFA25 schedule – tailored to your availability, interests, and preferred experience.