Third Annual ValEUs Conference “Valeus, Democracy and EU Foreign Policy. Paths to a New Policy Agenda”
The Third Annual ValEUs Conference, titled "Valeus, Democracy and EU Foreign Policy. Paths to a New Policy Agenda," will convene in Frankfurt (Oder), Germany. This event focuses on the critical intersection of European values, democratic principles, and the formulation of the European Union's foreign policy. Participants will engage in discussions aimed at shaping a forward-looking agenda for the EU's role on the global stage.
Why it matters
In an increasingly complex global environment, the alignment of foreign policy with core democratic values is paramount for international actors. This conference offers a vital platform for scholars and practitioners to critically examine how the European Union navigates this challenge. By exploring the interplay between internal values and external actions, the event contributes to a deeper understanding of the EU's normative power and its effectiveness in promoting democracy and human rights globally.
The discussions are particularly relevant given ongoing geopolitical shifts and the rise of various forms of authoritarianism. The conference's focus on developing a "New Policy Agenda" suggests an intent to move beyond theoretical discourse to practical recommendations, which could influence future EU strategies. This makes the event a key forum for those interested in the future direction of European foreign policy and its implications for international relations.
How to prepare
To effectively engage with the themes of this conference, participants should consider undertaking a comprehensive stakeholder mapping exercise, as outlined in the lesson on "what-is-stakeholder-mapping". This involves identifying key actors within the EU foreign policy landscape, including member states, institutions, civil society organizations, and external partners. Understanding their diverse interests and influence will be crucial for contributing to discussions on a new policy agenda.
Furthermore, an understanding of "dynamic-analysis" will be beneficial for assessing the evolving nature of democratic values and their application in foreign policy contexts. This involves not only recognizing the stated values but also analyzing how they are interpreted and implemented in practice, especially when confronted with competing interests or geopolitical realities. Considering "hidden-stakeholders" and their potential impact on policy outcomes can also provide a more nuanced perspective.
Finally, preparing for discussions on "engagement-strategies" will be essential. The conference aims to forge paths to a new policy agenda, which necessitates innovative approaches to diplomacy, cooperation, and the projection of democratic values. Participants should be ready to propose and evaluate various strategies for the EU to effectively pursue its foreign policy objectives while upholding its foundational principles.
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