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Introduction

Europe is confronted with significant change. After five decades of steady globalisation and open trade, global integration is slowing — and in some areas, reversing. In 2024, former ECB chief Mario Draghi underscored the urgent need to strengthen Europe’s economic competitiveness, setting out more than 300 recommendations across key industries. The report highlighted three central priorities: closing the innovation gap to reignite growth and address declining productivity amid demographic shifts; reducing strategic dependencies; and safeguarding the interests and well-being of European citizens.

In response, European strategic autonomy has emerged as a defining priority, with Europe seeking greater independence in policy, security and economic decision-making.