Running a think tank in a changing Europe: Navigating uncertain times in the European Union

In times of fundamental change, recognising the moment and acting accordingly is crucial. But how can think tanks remain resilient in an increasingly challenging environment? How can they collaborate to navigate uncertainty and strengthen their collective impact?

In this episode, we speak with Fabian Zuleeg, Chief Executive and Chief Economist at the European Policy Centre (EPC). With over 15 years at EPC, Fabian has closely observed and shaped the evolution of think tanks in Brussels and across Europe. He reflects on the pressures facing policy research today, the funding challenges that come with political shifts, and the strategic decisions required to ensure long-term influence.

As Europe undergoes profound transformations, Fabian makes the case for greater cooperation between think tanks, arguing that the sector must work together to remain effective and relevant. He also shares his insights on leadership, independence, and the future of policy advice in a rapidly shifting landscape.

Join us as we explore the role of think tanks in these turbulent times—and what it takes to lead one successfully.

This episode is part of a series, Think tanks in a changing Europe, supported by the Open Society Foundations. To listen to the whole series, visit: https://onthinktanks.org/podcast/

To know more about the European Policy Center (EPC) please visit: https://epc.eu/en/

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OTT Talks is a platform to share learning among think tanks, funders and other policy actors on a range of topics from think tank governance to communicating research.

Learn more: https://onthinktanks.org/podcast/

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On Think Tanks focuses on a range of issues of relevance and interest to think tanks as well as their staff and supporters. We hope that our initiatives and the articles and resources we publish will support think tanks to be more strategic in the ways they make short and long-term decisions; and that this will result in better policy advice and policy outcomes for all.

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