Chat

Cities are unique hubs of innovation that have the power to drive systemic change. At the same time, they are also at high risk of structural failure if current crises are not solved soon. Which instruments of democratic participation can cities adopt to become frontrunners in climate action? How can citizens become drivers of transformation, co-designing the future of resilient cities?

Session objective: Imagining new possibilities – Get inspired and foster new ideas by imagining bold solutions to complex challenges and imagine disruptively new ways of thinking.

14:00 - 15:30 Cities as Democratic Innovators for Climate

What's Next for Ukraine?

All-out war has been raging in Ukraine for around a year and a half now. What are potential scenarios for the further development of the war in the coming months? Even if the war is not over yet, we must also think about the time after and discuss economic and non-economic aspects of Ukraine's reconstruction.

Session objective: Imagining new possibilities – Get inspired and foster new ideas by imagining bold solutions to complex challenges and imagine disruptively new ways of thinking.

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Flora-Heiss-Rogger Saal

14:00 - 15:30 What's Next for Ukraine?

Securing Female Voices in Politics

Being active in politics can be life-threatening for women. The tremendous amount of violence, hate and harassment female politicians face both on- and offline is dangerous and has a deterring effect. Anti-feminism, anti-gender, anti-diversity and sexism are part of the standard toolbox of extremist movements. Securing female voices in politics is important if we want to ensure representative decision-making and inclusive societies.

14:00 - 15:30 Securing Female Voices in Politics

Invisible University for Ukraine: Preserving history, culture, education

How does Ukraine preserve its culture, urban heritage and education in the face of Russian shelling of cities, museums and schools? Since the full-scale invasion of its territory, the global interest in Ukraine has exploded, however, most know little about the role and condition of culture and education in the war. Founders and participants of various thriving initiatives share their experiences in upholding Ukrainian identity, its past, present, and future.

14:00 - 15:30 Invisible University for Ukraine: Preserving history, culture, education

Fractured Futures: Guided Tour

English 30

In a guided tour around Alpbach, EFA23 arts and culture guest curator Yana Barinova will introduce selected artworks of FRACTURED FUTURES and discuss different approaches to politically engaged art. Participating artists will address the struggle of European societies to welcome their newcomers, as well as the wider aspirations for a peaceful coexistence of humans and nature.

//INFO: In case of heavy rain, the tour will start in the Otto Molden Foyer.

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Terrasse

16:00 - 16:30 Fractured Futures: Guided Tour

High Polluters in Europe: Can they Finance their Transition?

Saturday, 26 August

Starting times

Afternoon

High-emitting companies, such as those in the energy sector, are major contributors to climate change and will therefore play a critical role in achieving the transition to net-zero. While low-carbon technology investments in the energy sector have increased steadily in recent years, we are far from where we need to be. How can emitters, investors, investment banks and policy makers move the dial on financing the transition? How can capital markets help accelerate this process?

Session objective: Imagining new possibilities – Get inspired and foster new ideas by imagining bold solutions to complex challenges and imagine disruptively new ways of thinking.

14:00 - 15:30 High Polluters in Europe: Can they Finance their Transition?

Geopolitics vs Norms: EU Enlargement as a Clash of Urgencies

The candidate status for Ukraine and Moldova, and the open European perspective for Georgia, have sparked questions around the duration and viability of the process and the need for a visionary yet realistic approach. How to approach enlargement geopolitically and strategically while at the same time secure the democracy consolidation and respect for rule of law in the candidate countries?

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Flora-Heiss-Rogger Saal

14:00 - 15:30 Geopolitics vs Norms: EU Enlargement as a Clash of Urgencies

Why Sports can never be Non-Political: 33 Sports Events that Changed the World

Is it reasonable to claim that sports should remain separate from politics? When entering a football stadium, a tennis court, or visiting the Olympic Games, no one simply disregards their political and moral beliefs. This reading discusses the importance of not only cheering for LeBron on the basketball court – but also actively listening to his insights on systematic racism; or why it is problematic when autocratic leaders use sporting events to distract from their human rights abuses.

14:00 - 15:30 Why Sports can never be Non-Political: 33 Sports Events that Changed the World

Book signing: Joseph Stiglitz

Join Joseph Stiglitz for a book signing at our EFA bookshop.

16:30 - 17:00 Book signing: Joseph Stiglitz

Book signing: Gabriele Rizzo

Evening

Join Gabriele Rizzo for a book signing of "HR Futures 2030: A Design for Future-Ready Human Resources" at our EFA bookshop.

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Bookstore

18:00 - 18:30 Book signing: Gabriele Rizzo

Sunday, 27 August

Starting times

Noon

Closing: Lab Days

At this closing 'fishbowl', everybody is invited to share memories and stories and to reflect on three days of encounters, debates, common experiences and Alpbach moments. We also want to think ahead and talk about the topics that will shape the 'Bold Europe' and should therefore be subject of EFA24.

13:30 - 14:30 Closing: Lab Days

Monday, 28 August

Starting times

Morning

How Can the EU Become a Geopolitical Actor in Its Eastern Neighbourhood?

Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine is having huge geopolitical implications for the EU's eastern neighbourhood, forcing the EU to take on greater responsibilities, including as a security provider. What could a new Eastern Partnership policy look like that takes account of the changed geopolitical circumstances and what should be the EU’s policy vis-à-vis the neighbours of its neighbours, particularly Central Asia?

Session objective: Imagining new possibilities – Get inspired and foster new ideas by imagining bold solutions to complex challenges and imagine disruptively new ways of thinking.

09:00 - 10:30 How Can the EU Become a Geopolitical Actor in Its Eastern Neighbourhood?

Fractured Futures: Guided Tour

Noon

English 30

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Otto Molden Foyer

13:00 - 13:30 Fractured Futures: Guided Tour

Unity Through Green Mobility: Railways and Sustainability

Afternoon

Interactively explore the possibilities for advancing green mobility in Europe: Aimed at
strengthening internal European collaborations and thus reducing Europe's dependencies on external influences,stakeholders from industry, politics, research and society will share experiences and best practises
to develop and discuss ideas for a greener future.

14:00 - 15:30 Unity Through Green Mobility: Railways and Sustainability

Accountability for War Crimes – Ending the Age of Impunity

Those who commit atrocities must be held accountable for their actions. However, many perpetrators have historically enjoyed impunity. This is also a current concern regarding Russian war crimes in Ukraine. There is pressure on the international community to achieve tangible results on accountability. But how can it deliver? What are the most effective ways? And what role can Europe play in ending the age of impunity?

Session objective: Building understanding – Build your understanding by learning about personal insights and experiences as well as developments in science, society, politics or world affairs.

14:00 - 15:30 Accountability for War Crimes – Ending the Age of Impunity

Player or Playground? Europe and the Tech War between the U.S. and China

The struggle for technological supremacy between the United States and China is in full swing. After the U.S. restricted sales of advanced semiconductors to China in October last year, the Netherlands recently issued similar export controls. What are the implications of this tech war for Europe? What should Europe do to increase its strategic sovereignty in the tech sector and avoid becoming a battleground?

Session objective: Imagining new possibilities – Get inspired and foster new ideas by imagining bold solutions to complex challenges and imagine disruptively new ways of thinking.

Hotel Alphof , Alphof - Seminarraum

14:00 - 15:30 Player or Playground? Europe and the Tech War between the U.S. and China

From Momentum to Climate Action

The momentum to make climate action happen is as big as never before. Knowledge and awareness about the palpable climate crisis are strong, solutions exist aplenty, yet satisfying policy actions are lacking and frustration and anger are growing. What are the positive social tipping points societies need? What are prime examples of action that pave the way towards more impact?

Session objective: Creating a community of action – Connect with like-minded individuals, build interest groups and promote long-term action by planning next steps and follow-ups with other participants.

//INFO: Because of bad weather, the session is going to take place in the second floor OG1 of the Volksschule Alpbach.

Volksschule , Volksschule Obergeschoß 1

14:00 - 15:00 From Momentum to Climate Action

Normalising Monetary Policy and Implications for Financial Stability

In times of high inflation, it is necessary to raise interest rates but also to shrink balance sheets of central banks to return to the goal of 2 % inflation in the medium term. This shift away from unconventional monetary policy is a must. But what will be the impact on financial stability after years of lower to negative nominal interest rates?

Session objective: Challenging assumptions – Have your beliefs and assumptions questioned, broaden your perspective and critically reflect on old and new questions and challenges.

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Herz-Kremenak-Saal

14:00 - 15:30 Normalising Monetary Policy and Implications for Financial Stability

From Climate Anxiety to Climate Action

The psychological effects of the climate crisis are becoming increasingly apparent in society: Feelings of being overwhelmed, guilt, sadness or even despair are summarised as Climate Anxiety. In order to be able to act again, we need to regain control of the situation. How can stories be told to create hope, scope for action and motivation to act? In short: How can Climate Anxiety become climate action?

Hotel Post , Hotel Post - Seminarraum

14:00 - 15:30 From Climate Anxiety to Climate Action

How Can We Improve Democratic Leadership?

To keep our democracy resilient, we need leaders who reflect the diversity of society. We will discuss current challenges and how to
promote women's leadership in a high-level panel discussion, followed by a short #IAmRemarkable workshop. #IAmRemarkable is an initiative for the empowerment of underrepresented groups in the workplace and beyond.

14:00 - 15:30 How Can We Improve Democratic Leadership?

Towards a more Resilient Value Chain of the Blue Economy and Marine Environment Preservation

Oceans are the lifeblood of our planet and their health is in continual decline. Adverse impacts of human activity threaten the livelihood of three billion people relying on marine ecosystems. This event explores how EU’s Mission Starfish 2030 framework and Digital Twin of the Ocean open data system leverage policy and science in efforts to green the blue economy by making ocean knowledge readily available to all its citizens, entrepreneurs, scientists, and policy-makers.

14:00 - 15:00 Towards a more Resilient Value Chain of the Blue Economy and Marine Environment Preservation

Book signing: Sandrine Dixson-Declève

Join Sandrine Dixson-Declève for a book signing of "Earth for All. A Survival Guide for Humanity" at our bookshop.

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Bookstore

15:15 - 15:45 Book signing: Sandrine Dixson-Declève

Bitcoin goes Mainstream?

Uncover smart strategies for governments to adopt Bitcoin, ensuring investor protection and fostering innovation. Jump into the trajectory of Bitcoin’s rise to the mainstream as we explore Liechtenstein’s forward looking regulations and its global approach.
In this insightful discussion, the focus will be on addressing current questions and debating the path towards a secure and encouraging future with cryptocurrencies.

15:30 - 16:30 Bitcoin goes Mainstream?

Economic Growth and Green Transition: Compatible Objectives?

The uncontrolled economic growth of the past fifty years is seen as a major cause of the current climate crisis. Urgent action is needed to address climate risks and rethink economic development within the global framework. Alessio Terzi, author of “Growth for Good: Reshaping Capitalism to save Humanity from Human Catastrophe”, argues that an alternative approach is possible. By drawing on various disciplines, Terzi proposes a revaluation of capitalism to tackle the challenges of climate change. He will present a program to involve capitalism in the fight against climate catastrophe, emphasizing the importance of policies and citizen involvement.

Ort Alpbach , Feuerwehrhaus

15:30 - 16:30 Economic Growth and Green Transition: Compatible Objectives?

United but Alone: How to Rethink the West’s Relations With the “Global South”?

While Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has united the West, many countries in the so-called “Global South” have refused to take sides. What are the reasons behind this apparent indifference and how can the West rethink its approach to win hearts and minds in the Global South?

Session objective: Challenging assumptions – Have your beliefs and assumptions questioned, broaden your perspective and critically reflect on old and new questions and challenges.

17:00 - 18:00 United but Alone: How to Rethink the West’s Relations With the “Global South”?

North-South Climate Justice: Bringing Two Poles Closer Together

Tuesday, 29 August

Starting times

Morning

At several UN Climate Change Conferences (COP) the Global North and Global South relied on two opposite arguments regarding financial climate justice measures. While there is acceptance of historic responsibility, there is no agreement on necessary and urgent actions. Prior to the COP28 in November 2023, questions arise again. How do these two opposite poles define global climate justice and what can be done for them to come together.

Session objective: Building understanding – Build your understanding by learning about personal insights and experiences as well as developments in science, society, politics or world affairs.

//INFO: Because of bad weather the session will take place in the ground floor (EG3) of the elementary school ("Volksschule") of Alpbach.

Volksschule , Volksschule Erdgeschoß 3

09:00 - 10:30 North-South Climate Justice: Bringing Two Poles Closer Together

Deep-Tech Innovation – Shaping Europe’s Future

English 120

Deep-tech innovations such as AI, space travel, quantum technology, advanced materials, novel energy and biotech will
decisively shape our future. In the global race for technological leadership, Europe must consistently focus on the
development of key technologies, accelerate deep-tech innovations and bring them to market faster. To this end, strong multi-stakeholder ecosystems are crucial to combine the forces of top science and research, companies and venture
capital.

09:00 - 11:00 Deep-Tech Innovation – Shaping Europe’s Future

War and Peace in the Digital Age

The advent of new technologies has always affected the nature of conflict and competition between states. In today’s world of rapidly evolving digital technologies and geopolitical competition it is more important than ever to examine this relationship. Similarly, what are the possibilities for using digital technologies to resolve conflicts and build peace?

Session objective: Building understanding – Build your understanding by learning about personal insights and experiences as well as developments in science, society, politics or world affairs.

//INFO: Because of bad weather the session will take place in the first floor (EG1) of the elementary school of Alpbach.

Volksschule , Volksschule Erdgeschoß 1

09:00 - 10:30 War and Peace in the Digital Age

Rebuilding Ukraine

Almost two years since the start of the war, Ukraine has outstripped all expectations in its ability to defend itself against Russia. Although ongoing, a comprehensive analysis of how Ukraine's future could look like after the war and what tools policymakers, financial institutions & economic leaders can use to reach this goal will be the center of the debate.

09:00 - 10:30 Rebuilding Ukraine

Reform of the UN Security Council: Nothing, Nowhere, Never at all?

The United Nations Security Council is the world’s primary organ for international peace and security. It was created in 1945 reflecting the balance of power after World War II. However, the composition of the UNSC with its five permanent and ten elected members no longer reflects today’s realities – and the permanent members’ right to veto is increasingly criticised. The two co-chairs of the UN’s Intergovernmental Negotiations on Security Council reform discuss possible ways forward with other UN Ambassadors and students from our “How to Revive Multilateralism?” seminar.

//INFO: Because of heavy rain, the session is going to take place at the Otto Molden Foyer in the CCA

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Otto Molden Foyer

09:30 - 11:00 Reform of the UN Security Council: Nothing, Nowhere, Never at all?

Geopolitical Awakening of Central and Eastern Europe

The shifting gravity of geopolitical agency towards the eastern flank of the European Union means that Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) are becoming more relevant in terms of EU policy making and its strategic outlook. This development forces us to rethink our preconceived notions about CEE and how to channel the increasing importance of the region into greater political impact.

11:00 - 12:00 Geopolitical Awakening of Central and Eastern Europe

Afternoon

Using the EU's Market Power to Set Global Norms and Standards

As one of the largest economies in the world, the EU has the ability to use its market power to set global norms and standards. This can take various forms: from environmental standards, through human rights and anti-corruption provisions to tech regulation. By setting high standards, the EU can help create a more sustainable and equitable global economy. Has the EU been successful in this so far? What more can it do without compromising its competitiveness?

Session objective: Making progress visible – Be surprised by current progress, witness the establishment of new good practices and find hidden treasures of transformation.

//INFO: Because of bad weather the session is going to take place in the classroom EG1 of the Volksschule Alpbach.

Volksschule , Volksschule Erdgeschoß 1

14:00 - 15:30 Using the EU's Market Power to Set Global Norms and Standards

Emotions vs. Facts – Can “Factfulness” Help Change the World?

It feels like the world is going from one crisis to another. The subjective feeling of a downward spiral and the
idea of "factfulness", as a way to open up minds for fact-based reasoning, are addressed and explained. Which
role does factual knowledge play when it comes to maintaining democratic structures? What is businesses?
and the economy's contribution? Can autocratic tendencies be prevented by factfulness?

14:00 - 15:30 Emotions vs. Facts – Can “Factfulness” Help Change the World?

Building Trust in Science and Democracy – The Role of Science Communication

Disinterest and increasing scepticism towards science and democracy lead us to the question of what we can
do to restore trust in these crucial factors. The results of a recent study relating to the causes of science and
democracy scepticism conducted by the Institute for Advanced Studies will be discussed along with the role of
science communication.

14:00 - 15:30 Building Trust in Science and Democracy – The Role of Science Communication

Rebuilding an Effective European Security Architecture

The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has dealt the final blow to the post-Cold War European security order. Although the war is still raging, it is important to look ahead and discuss what a future European security architecture should look like after the war and whether it should include Russia. How could security guarantees for Ukraine and other countries look like? What is the role of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, NATO and key players such as the EU, Turkey and the UK?

Session objective: Imagining new possibilities – Get inspired and foster new ideas by imagining bold solutions to complex challenges and imagine disruptively new ways of thinking.

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Flora-Heiss-Rogger Saal

14:00 - 15:30 Rebuilding an Effective European Security Architecture

A Resilient and Sovereign Europe: How to Thrive in a Fragmented World

The ongoing shift towards a more fragmented world order, driven by the pandemic and Russia's war against Ukraine, calls for urgent action. Europe needs to reduce its dependencies and strengthen its strategic sovereignty, while remaining open to the world. How can Europe respond to these challenges and regain its competitiveness? How can Europe become bolder in shaping the global order?

Session objective: Imagining new possibilities – Get inspired and foster new ideas by imagining bold solutions to complex challenges and imagine disruptively new ways of thinking.

Hotel Böglerhof , Böglerhof - Fichtensaal

14:00 - 15:30 A Resilient and Sovereign Europe: How to Thrive in a Fragmented World

The Diplomatic Triangle of the EU Green Deal: Trade, Environment and Development

The EU’s green agenda has drawn criticism from trading partners. Concerns arise over the disproportionate negative impact on least developed countries. Explore the importance of rethinking and better integrating the development dimension into the EU’s “green trade” agenda and of formulating a diplomatic strategy to ensure a successful green transformation of the EU’s industrial and agricultural sectors.

Session objective: Making progress visible – Be surprised by current progress, witness the establishment of new good practices and find hidden treasures of transformation.

14:00 - 15:30 The Diplomatic Triangle of the EU Green Deal: Trade, Environment and Development

Innovation Unleashed: Disruptions Paving the Way for Europe’s Accelerated Progress

The invasion by Russia has triggered a chain of events that may potentially reshape the geopolitical landscape. In response to heightened security concerns, countries have been compelled to prioritise defence and energy efficiency, leading to increased investments in research and development. How can this momentum generated by disruptive impulses be harnessed to unlock further innovation potential in the Danube region? By examining the current state of affairs, identifying emerging technological trends, and discussing collaborative strategies, the speakers will deliberate on the transformative possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead for the region.

Hotel Post , Hotel Post - Seminarraum

14:00 - 15:30 Innovation Unleashed: Disruptions Paving the Way for Europe’s Accelerated Progress

Women's * Forum - Discussing the Gender Data Gap

To achieve equality for women* it is key to understand their facts of life. However, in economy, science, public and private life, most “evidence-based” decisions are predicated on data about male experience. The biased underrepresentation of women* in all kinds of databases leads to prejudices, risks and discrimination.

Experts from different fields discuss the implications of the Gender Data Gap in their area. Participants are invited to exchange ideas in a safe(r) space

Info: participation is open to FLINTA* persons only.

14:00 - 15:00 Women's * Forum - Discussing the Gender Data Gap

From Groningen to Lützerath: How civil resistance shape public policy

We, the people, shape politics and public policy in manifold ways. More often than not, civil resistance has been the determining factor to turn the tide and prevent controversial projects from becoming reality. This panel seeks to explore the differences in the public’s approach to two major projects concerning fossil fuels: the Groningen gas field and the Garzweiler surface mine. One of these projects will soon be closed, whilst the other one is booming. What have been the deciding factors for this outcome?

15:30 - 16:30 From Groningen to Lützerath: How civil resistance shape public policy

Fractured Futures: Art Hike

Join us for a hike with artist Deborah Sengl and EFA23 guest curator Yana Barinova to discuss their approach to politically engaged art. Sengl's installation of a refugee tent highlights the difficulties faced by people who are forced to flee their homes.

//INFO: Due to the rain we will meet at CCA terrace and go to Schulhäusl.
Bring hiking shoes and water.
In case of heavy rain, the session will take place in the Schulhäusl.

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Vorplatz

15:45 - 16:45 Fractured Futures: Art Hike

And Then What?: Inside Stories From Twenty-First-Century Diplomacy

So much of modern-day diplomacy still takes place behind closed doors, away from cameras and prying eyes. So, what does this vital role really look like in today’s world – and what does it take to do it well? Catherine Ashton, the EU’s first High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security from 2009 to 2014, will share insights and anecdotes from her new book “And Then What?: Inside Stories From Twenty-First-Century Diplomacy”.

15:45 - 16:30 And Then What?: Inside Stories From Twenty-First-Century Diplomacy

Will Tech Bail Us Out?

The global community may only have six years left to set actions that will limit global warming to 1.5 degrees. New technologies for carbon dioxide removal are expected to take about ten more years to become operational at a significant scale. This is a race against time. When will future tech breakthroughs be able to support an effective transformation towards net-zero? How do we align our actions and thinking today in view of these future tools?

Session objective: Imagining new possibilities – Get inspired and foster new ideas by imagining bold solutions to complex challenges and imagine disruptively new ways of thinking.

17:00 - 18:00 Will Tech Bail Us Out?

Book signing: Sergei Guriev

Evening

Join Sergei Guriev for a book signing at our EFA bookshop.

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Bookstore

18:00 - 18:30 Book signing: Sergei Guriev

Technology and Geostrategy: Bold Europe

As the current crises prove, innovations are more important than ever to address our major
challenges, from decarbonisation to digitalisation and demographic change. At the same time,
technology has become a geostrategic instrument: Those who lead the way in future technologies
leave their mark on the world. Europe is wedged between the major power blocs USA and China,
who are forcefully pushing development. The central question is how Europe can leverage its
strengths and consolidate its position in the world.

Hotel Böglerhof , Böglerhof - Halle

18:30 - 20:00 Technology and Geostrategy: Bold Europe

Wednesday, 30 August

Starting times

Morning

Is Lack of Economic Opportunity Eroding Democracy?

English 50

Increasing social and economic inequality, marginalisation, and disillusionment of citizens, can lead to a loss of trust in institutions and political processes, while exacerbating social and political tensions. So, is lack of economic opportunity eroding democracy? And how can we change course to build equitable and liberal democratic societies given the many interests involved?

Session objective: Imagining new possibilities – Get inspired and foster new ideas by imagining bold solutions to complex challenges and imagine disruptively new ways of thinking.

//INFO: This is a "Democracy in Question?" Podcast Recording with Live Audience. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the Session.

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Herz-Kremenak-Saal

09:00 - 09:50 Is Lack of Economic Opportunity Eroding Democracy?

Closing: Europe in the World Days

10:00 - 11:00 Closing: Europe in the World Days

Noon

Fireside Chat with Catherine Ashton

Catherine Ashton, the EU’s former High-Representative for Foreign and Security Policy and Vice-President of the Commission, will share her perspective on 21st century diplomacy, the prospects for a revival of the Iran nuclear deal and the current situation in the Western Balkans.

Schulhäusl , Schulhäusl

13:45 - 14:45 Fireside Chat with Catherine Ashton

Afternoon

Unheard Voices: Women’s Rights, Displacement & the European Failure

Bereft of their voices, young women in a refugee camp used photographs to tell their stories of displacement and forgottenness at the borders of Europe. Their stories ask the questions to be tackled in this session. What is it like to exist on the fringes of humanity? Are women’s rights mere words on paper? Have we lost touch? And where has Europe gone wrong?

INFO: This session is connected to the EFA Arts & Culture Programme.

Schulhäusl , Schulhäusl

15:00 - 16:00 Unheard Voices: Women’s Rights, Displacement & the European Failure

Thursday, 31 August

Starting times

Morning

Weak Financial Literacy: Is Europe's Youth Facing Financial Uncertainty?

Knowledge about financial provision and personal risks from income security is low, especially among the younger population. In addition, there is a noticeable West-East gap in Europe. In many CEE countries, the protection of material assets is still prioritised. There's a possible threat of old-age poverty and existence without strengthening financial literacy: Look at the framework needed and explore the opportunities and risks.

09:00 - 10:30 Weak Financial Literacy: Is Europe's Youth Facing Financial Uncertainty?

Digital Solutions in Times of Multiple Crises: Lessons from Ukraine

Ukraine stands out as one of the most digitised countries globally. This panel will explore the transformative power of digitalisation in enabling sustainability and development, even in the face of ongoing war and crises. Valuable lessons for government, business, and security can be derived from Ukraine’s digital journey. Let’s explore together potential futures and risks digitalisation can pose.

11:00 - 12:00 Digital Solutions in Times of Multiple Crises: Lessons from Ukraine

Noon

Fractured Futures: Guided Tour

English 30

In a guided tour around Alpbach, participating artists will introduce selected artworks of FRACTURED FUTURES and discuss different approaches to politically engaged art. Artists will address the struggle of European societies to welcome their newcomers, as well as the wider aspirations for a peaceful coexistence of humans and nature.

//INFO: In case of heavy rain, the tour will start in the Otto Molden Foyer.

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Terrasse

13:00 - 13:30 Fractured Futures: Guided Tour

Tackling the Cost-of-living Crisis | Is the Middle-Class losing ground?

Afternoon

The World Economic Forum cites the Cost-of-living crisis as the biggest near-term risk through 2025, followed by natural disasters, extreme weather events and geo economic confrontations.
How well prepared is Europe, is Austria, to counter such risk? What measures do we consider necessary to cushion the impending loss of prosperity? What options do we have when one of society's basic promises for a good life is suddenly called into question: the promise of an affordable home for oneself and one`s family.

Congress Centrum Alpbach , CCA Herz-Kremenak-Saal

14:00 - 15:30 Tackling the Cost-of-living Crisis | Is the Middle-Class losing ground?

The Age of Complexity: Navigating the World in the 21st Century

In order to face the multiple crises of our time and actively shape the future despite great uncertainty, we need the ability to manage complexity. In situations of crisis and while change processes, people have to know the
system within which they operate and decide how to take different factors into account. How do they proceed this and what is what matters most?

Schulhäusl , Schulhäusl

14:00 - 15:30 The Age of Complexity: Navigating the World in the 21st Century

The Future of Food and Agriculture – and the Politics Behind

German 90

Farmers only contribute to approx. 1.3 % of the European gross domestic product, but their efforts to feeding
the world are priceless. With a global population hitting ten billion by 2050, food supply must more than double.
However, we witness an unbalanced shift of priorities in politics. The Minister of Agriculture, Norbert Totschnig,
and others discuss issues around consumer demand, food security and policy.

14:00 - 15:30 The Future of Food and Agriculture – and the Politics Behind

Next Exit: Fossil Fuels?

The most recent report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) clearly states that the global community cannot allow for the implementation of new fossil fuel extraction projects if it really wishes to effectively limit global warming. What changes does it need for EU energy policy to pursue this goal effectively and which kind of narrative will bring all actors on board?

Session objective: Imagining new possibilities – Get inspired and foster new ideas by imagining bold solutions to complex challenges and imagine disruptively new ways of thinking.

14:00 - 15:30 Next Exit: Fossil Fuels?

Labour Markets in Transition

In an era of great technological and environmental change, many jobs are likely to change, if not disappear, by 2030. This will fundamentally change labour markets. Will there be enough work for everyone in the future, and can green jobs make up for those lost through automation and AI? How can policy makers, companies and societies manage the upcoming workforce transition?

Session objective: Building understanding – Build your understanding by learning about personal insights and experiences as well as developments in business, society, politics or world affairs.

Hotel Post , Hotel Post - Seminarraum

14:00 - 15:30 Labour Markets in Transition

European Parliament Elections 2024 - How Will Young People Vote?

From 6 to 9 June 2024, there will be once again the opportunity to determine the composition of the European Parliament. However, young voters’ abstention in European elections is particularly high, over 70 %. Building on a related Alpbach Seminar and Lab, politicians from differing party groups will join our discussion: What will be the decisive topics and policies that can activate young people to vote? How can we make European politics more attractive to them?

Session objective: Imagining new possibilities – Get inspired and foster new ideas by imagining bold solutions to complex challenges and imagine disruptively new ways of thinking.