Research Areas

In line with the liberal tradition that always supports new technologies, research in this field will examine how innovation can help achieving sustainable transition and how digital transformation of Europe can empower citizens. But it will also consider cybersecurity and other policies, which can ensure that digitalization and the green transition is a citizen-centred and socially responsible process. Topics will deal with aspects of the European digital market, artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things, 5G and connectivity issues, the role of private and business actors in climate politics, sustainable solutions in the energy intensive industries, trade and the environment, renewable energy etc. 

The world has entered a prolonged period of instability and conflict that puts a question mark on the liberal world order. While seeking to recalibrate traditional alliances and partnerships, there is a growing consensus that the EU should develop its strategic autonomy and its capacity to act in international affairs. At the same time, the European neighbourhoods in the East and the South are in turmoil, and the EU enlargement is on hold until further notice. In the past this have been the most successful expressions of European foreign policy and the most efficient tools for facilitating social, political and economic transition in the continent. ELF’s research activities feed into debates that speak of a renewed importance for EU Enlargement and Neighbourhood Policy, as the main vehicles of Europe’s strategic vision for a new liberal world order.  

There is no legitimate government without justice, and there is no justice without the rule of law. This is why the rule of law and the civil liberties that it safeguards are fundamental for the European project and for liberal democracy in the continent.