Future of the European Union

The European Union operates amidst widespread transformations and simultaneous crises. Its operating environment is evolving faster than ever before, and the rules-based international system – the very foundation upon which the EU was built – is undergoing significant upheaval. The EU has largely been reactive, adapting to changes rather than leading the way.

The EU’s role in the world is not predetermined. It could end up sidelined between major powers or take an active role in defining its own path.

The EU now has a unique opportunity to deepen its internal market, reform its governance model and accelerate the green and technological transitions, which, according to our analysis, present opportunities that the EU should seize. With public trust in the Union higher than ever, its ability to meet expectations will determine what Europe’s future will look like.

Discussions about the EU often focus on its weaknesses and internal divisions. While recognising and critically examining these is essential, it is equally important to acknowledge what is already working within the Union. The EU remains one of the most prosperous and stable regions in the world. It offers its citizens security, governance rooted in the rule of law, and democratic institutions. At the same time, it has developed a unique model of social market economies, where economic benefits are distributed relatively evenly.

With these strengths, the EU has the potential to act as a driver of global progress – not just a follower. The question is: can the EU transform this potential into a strategic asset?

In the first phase of the project, we conducted 20 expert interviews and reviewed foresight and background literature on the EU. The aim was to map out and highlight perspectives on what the future of the EU might look like and which opportunities should be seized.

Our foresight review, published at the Europe Forum on 28 August, focuses on five key perspectives that shape the EU’s future opportunities and direction. These perspectives provide tools for discussing what kind of union we want to build and how the EU can strengthen its role in a changing world.

In the review, we present our interpretations of the ongoing transformation and potential directions of change. We examine the future within a time frame of approximately 10 years, looking ahead to 2035. We hope that various actors in Finland and across Europe will develop their own interpretations, challenge our findings and continue the discussion.

The insights from the review were also discussed at the Europe Forum.

Read more: