High-Level Lecture: Europe’s Role in Transatlantic Relations: Should I Stay or Should I Go?

The second Trump administration has demonstrated an unprecedented willingness to use tariffs, public criticism, and other forms of pressure to obtain concessions from the EU and its member states. These developments have intensified debates about the future of transatlantic relations. Some view them as a wake-up call for Europe to strengthen its strategic autonomy and reduce dependencies on the United States. Others argue that the current tensions may ultimately reinforce the transatlantic partnership by accelerating European investments in defence, competitiveness, and innovation. Moreover, Europe's growing reliance on American technologies, particularly in artificial intelligence, may continue to bind the two sides closely together despite political disagreements. Bringing together two senior EU officials engaged in transatlantic affairs, this discussion will explore how Europe positions itself in an era of greater uncertainty and what future can realistically be expected for the transatlantic relationship. 

Speakers:

• Mrs. Delphine Pronk, Managing Director for the Americas at the European External Action Service 
• Mr. David O’Sullivan, EU Sanctions Envoy and former Ambassador of the EU Delegation to the United States 

Moderator:

• Florian Trauner, Dean of the Brussels School of Governance  

This event will be attended by students of the MA in European and International Governance, the LLM in International and European Law, and the Advanced Master in European Governance programmes. Students enrolled in these programmes do not need to register through the form, but they will need to scan the QR code on site to prove attendance.

All other participants must register via the registration form.

This event is organised by the Brussels School of Governance (VUB).