“Towards a National Strategy for a Strong and Sovereign Europe: Challenges and Prospects in Addressing Populism and Euroscepticism – European Solutions to Contemporary Political Challenges”

On Saturday, 13 September 2025, the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP) and the Hellenic Association for the Federation of Europe (EEnOE) co-organized a closed seminar on the theme: “Towards a National Strategy for a Strong and Sovereign Europe: Challenges and Prospects in Addressing Populism and Euroscepticism – European Solutions to Contemporary Political Challenges.” The event was held in the framework of the think nea – New Narratives of EU Integration initiative which is supported of the Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans.

In total, four panels and one special session brought together leading academics, experts, and institutional representatives, offering a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of the political, social, and institutional challenges facing the EU, as well as the prospects for deepening and enlargement in the current geopolitical environment.

A common thread across all interventions was the need for the formulation of a coherent national strategy on European affairs, which will strengthen Greece’s contribution to a strong, sovereign, and more democratic Europe. Special emphasis was placed on addressing populism, migration management, the rule of law, common defense and security, the implications of enlargement, sustainable development, and social cohesion—particularly in light of Greece’s upcoming EU Council Presidency in the first half of 2027.

Opening remarks:

Elena Lazarou (Director General, ELIAMEP), Daphne Gogou (President, EEnOE; Bureau Member, UEF)

Panel I – Migration: Narratives, Public Trust and European Solidarity
Speakers: Lefteris Papagiannakis, Apostolos Veizis
Moderator: Daphne Gogou

Panel II – EU Enlargement Policy and European Security & Defense: A Wider Union for a Safer Europe
Speakers: Elena Lazarou, Ioannis Armakolas, Giorgos Korkovelos, Theodoros Tsikas
Moderator: Eleftheria Ftaklaki

Panel III – Rule of Law and Democratic Deepening in the Era of Digital Governance
Speakers: Maria Gavouneli, Dimitris Papangelopoulos, Marovita Nikolaidou
Moderator: Ioannis Stribis

Special Session – Globalization and Economic Cohesion: Building Resilience and Restoring Trust in the European Social Model
Speakers: Tasos Haniotis, Giorgos Kostakos, Alekos Kritikos, Panagiotis Syriopoulos
Moderator: Konstantinos Myrodiás