Third Annual Economist Croatia Summit

The chair of the conference presents the Economist’s viewpoint on the prospects of Croatia, south-east Europe, and the broader region, at a time marked by geopolitical conflict, economic uncertainty, and significant societal and technological transitions.

Guided by the shared values of the EU, a stronger Europe protects democracy while fostering innovation, sustainability and social fairness. Can Europe strengthen its competitiveness by investing in its people, skills and human capital? Where is Croatia’s role within this framework? Can the countries of south-east Europe equip their workforces for the digital, green and demographic transitions, while building more resilient and inclusive economies?

How does the US administration respond to the security challenges for Europe against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Ukraine? How does the war in Ukraine affect south-east Europe? On what grounds can the US and Europe deepen co-operation to promote stability and prosperity in the region?

What is Croatia’s assessment regarding RRF funds, in terms of their absorption and effective use? What challenges arise for financing –especially for smaller EU economies—after the conclusion of the RRF? What are the implications of geopolitical instability for banks and financial institutions? Which macroeconomic indicators are most affected by unpredictability, and which are a source of concern, particularly for the EU member countries?

This panel will explore the prospects of Croatia, as well as those of the wider region, in the technology sector. How can investment in technology drive the region’s economic upgrading? Is there sufficient tech talent in the region, and how can it be retained?

How can south-eastern Europe contribute to Europe’s energy security while also reaping its own dividend in terms of economic growth and resilience? What are the most important energy projects currently under way at the regional and cross-regional level? How are the region and Europe progressing with the green transition, and how is the geopolitical upheaval affecting it? Will the landscape become somewhat more predictable with regard to the hydrocarbons?

The wider region of south-east Europe holds a central place in the security of Europe as a whole, not least due to its proximity to conflict zones that are critical to the global order. How can the countries of the region strengthen their role within the current security and defence landscape? Where do the EU and NATO stand within this context?

This panel will discuss developments and prospects in sectors such as infrastructure and networks, which are critical for connectivity and co-operation among countries and regions. What is the current state of infrastructure and networks in south-east Europe, and what plans are in place for their improvement? How will this affect the region’s growth prospects?

This panel will focus on the geopolitical challenges facing Europe, particularly with regard to its eastern borders and its south-eastern region. It will explore how Europe can strengthen its global presence and cohesion by pursuing strategic autonomy and by leading efforts to resolve regional conflicts.