The focus of the conference will be on cross-border cooperation, innovation, and the impact of European policies on sustainability, infrastructure, industry and the economy. We will highlight the value of European border effects tests, cohesion policies, and the importance of cross-border collaboration for border regions. Ten years of experience show that addressing societal challenges requires a structural, long-term approach, with short-term goals in mind. A joint effort from governments, knowledge institutions, and businesses is needed for sustainable progress.

What can you expect?
♦ Opening and welcome address by Governor Carina Van Cauter, Executive Member Kurt Moens, and ITEM director Prof. dr. Anouk Bollen-Vandenboorn

♦ Presentations on current themes such as European Integration and cohesion policy for border regions, innovative instruments for cross-border cooperation, and the future of the competitiveness of European industries. Speakers include Erwin Hoogland, Birte Wassenberg, Thomas Wobben, Gyula Ocskay, Yianis Koutsikidis, Maarten Vidal, Arthur Van Dijk, Mark Andries, Carl De Maré and Hans Meijer

♦ Panel discussions on cross-border cooperation and the role of the Green Deal in the new European industrial policy. Prominent policymakers and researchers, including Martin Unfried, Susanne Sivonen and Pim Mertens, will share their insights.

Please visit the event page to view the full programme and sign-up.

 

The ITEM Annual Conference 2024 will be hosted by Governor Carina van Cauter of the province of East Flanders and co-sponsored by the Chancellery and Foreign Affairs Department (DKBUZA) of the Flemish government and the province of East Flanders. It will take place at the Provincial House in Ghent (Leopoldskazerne).