Europe in Conversation: Reflections from the State of Europe 2025 Festival
27 Oct 2025
Across Brussels, ideas and debates filled the air as the State of Europe 2025 – Festival of Politics and Ideas brought together leaders, thinkers, and citizens to explore what kind of Europe we want to build next. Hosted by Friends of Europe, the 22nd edition of this annual gathering invited open, cross-sector dialogue on how the continent can stay competitive, democratic, and united in a rapidly changing world.
The European Cultural Foundation (ECF) was represented by Isabelle Schwarz, Head of Public Policy, and Gerry Salole, Chair of ECF’s Board, who joined discussions on renewing Europe’s social contract and recognising culture as a force for civic trust and participation. Europe’s future depends not only on political choices but on the shared values and imagination that hold societies together.
From debates on enlargement and AI regulation to calls for fairness, sustainability, and inclusion, the Festival echoed the priorities shaping ECF’s strategy for 2025–2029: strengthening Europe’s democratic and cultural infrastructure, its public sphere, and its capacity for solidarity in action.
