Start the day with a boost of energy! The trainers of the Austrian Armed Forces will get you sweating with military functional fitness on the forecourt of the CCA - an ideal way to recover from stress and prevent burnout or illness. 

Start your Alpbach day well-informed: our Morning Briefings give you a daily overview of EFA24’s most important news and insights. Listen to exciting interviews and meet with inspirational speakers and panelists!

Since the 1980s, wealth and income inequality has started to rise again in many countries. While some, such as the US, have seen a significant increase in inequality, others, such as Sweden, have maintained relatively stable levels. Explore the reasons for these divergent trends: What are the roots of inequality and which policies can make a real difference?

European politics is witnessing unprecedented shifts, challenging established structures and giving rise to new movements. This two-part debate will initially investigate whether a radical change in the European political landscape has in fact occurred, dissecting election results and the driving forces behind them. We will then discuss the broader implications, whether there will be a radical change in the trajectory of Europe and Europe's role in the world.

In a world of rapid change, fragmentation and polarisation mark society and politics. Although contemporary challenges require close international cooperation, the willingness and ability to engage in dialogue are dwindling. Democracy is under pressure, alternatives are appearing and Europe has to explain itself. How can defence policy support a stable space for discussions?

The pandemic and the war in Ukraine have shown Europe’s dependencies in critical areas. Since then, there has been a lot of talk about “de-risking”: mitigating risks and limiting strategic dependencies. However, it’s still not clear what this would mean for Europe. How much de-risking is necessary to safeguard Europe’s economic security and when does de-risking itself become a risk to the economy? //INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water.

The EU Enlargement is increasingly seen as an effective foreign policy tool to diminish the influence of external powers in the Eastern Neighbourhood and the Western Balkans. Reframing European integration as a strategy to provide security for the neighbourhoods, as well as make EU Member States safer, will certainly strengthen the EU’s standing as a geopolitical actor - for example through a sustainable peace settlement for Ukraine and sound security arrangements for Moldova.

All human economic activities rely on natural resources and ecosystems. Yet, the state of nature and biodiversity is critical all around the globe. Hear different concepts and strategies about how businesses can integrate nature and biodiversity goals into corporate strategies. It is explored how to achieve long-term prosperity and economic resilience, by becoming not only climate-neutral but climate-positive. //INFO: Bring hiking shoes and sufficient water.

It is an intellectual contradiction, an unbearable gap between personal aspirations and reality: Cognitive dissonance confronts us with the discrepancy between what we know and how we behave as we face major crises. The transformative potential of artistic and psychological approaches will help you find new ways to move beyond feelings of powerlessness and discomfort, and allow for utopian thinking. 

As part of the EFA World of Women* initiative, EFA is taking extra efforts to encourage female* contributors, both in programming and participation. Every day, from the Europe in the World Days to the Austria in Europe Days, one dedicated hour will be hosted by women* engaged in EFA’s broader network, which offers the opportunity to connect, reflect, and take action.

// INFO: To ensure a focused and engaging experience, we won't be providing any catering. Participants are, however, free to order lunch and beverages at their own cost. //

If you don’t feel like having lunch by yourself or if you are interested in meeting fellow EFA participants, take a seat at one of the EFA Connects tables around lunchtime. We look forward to seeing you make connections. EFA Connects tables are located in Erste Lounge at CCA, and at the restaurants Jakober and Berghof. The tables are marked by little EFA flags. 

Join and discuss with us current and most important topics.

Welcome to the Alpbach IDEAS Infopoint, a dedicated space during the lunch break, where potential participants of the Alpbach IDEAS programme can gather information and engage in conversations on ideas for a more democratic and sustainable Europe. This daily event offers the opportunity to learn more about the Alpbach IDEAS programme and process, and exchange ideas with experts on specific topics.  

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, there is growing interest in leveraging its capabilities to enhance democratic processes and governance. We aim to nurture a nuanced understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with harnessing AI in the service of democracy and of its potential for improving democratic engagement. Join the dialogue on best practices, ethical considerations and policy implications.

//INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water.

Global demographic changes, such as declining birth rates and increasing life expectancy, are challenging the sustainability of many European pension systems. Explore how successful pension models can provide valuable lessons. It is critical to act now and implement policies that ensure a secure future for all, preventing old-age poverty for future generations. //INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water.

Businesses are pivotal to Europe’s social contract, driving growth and innovation while impacting societal well-being. Despite public mistrust of their profit-led motives, their capacity for rapid, scalable innovation is undeniable. Explore how governments and the EU can harness this potential for the social good, rethinking interactions between the private sector, public institutions, and citizens to forge a new relationship.

The world is far from achieving the Sustainable Development Goals: Extreme poverty and hunger are increasing, violent conflicts are multiplying and global emissions are at their highest levels ever. In September, the UN will convene a “Summit of the Future” to reinvigorate multilateralism. How should the system be adapted to better meet current challenges? Hear perspectives from different countries, and share your ideas for the future of multilateralism. 

Africa and Europe have the unique opportunity to work together in the context of emerging tools and technologies and to co-create climate and energy policy solutions. Those have to be just and effective for both sides on the path towards climate neutrality. Leading policy makers, activists and experts discuss the ambitions, potentials and hurdles the African-European partnership is facing. 

If the global community is to be true to its commitments, carbon emissions need to be reduced by at least 45 % globally and by at least 55 % EU-wide by 2030. Fossil fuel use and production need to be scaled down, yet the industry remains heavily subsidised. It is time to explore the most effective ways of bringing movement into the stuck system of ‘big oil’ power. What can (shareholder) activism, (financial) regulation, investment stewardship, or other actors achieve? 

The Western Balkans continues to find itself mired in a stagnant status quo, trapped in traditional diplomatic discourse, without ideas to forge a path forward. This deadlock necessitates a fresh infusion of perspectives, essential for breaking through the barriers that obstruct regional advancement. These perspectives exist and must be brought to light; they need to free the Balkans from the despair and inertia that have held it captive for far too long. 

Against the backdrop of growing polarisation, the complexity of national identities, diverse cultures and opposing ideologies, ways must be found for meaningful dialogue and common ground. How can we bridge divides in politics and society? Can shared values or goals serve as a foundation?

The transition that lies ahead is unprecedented. Achieving a climate-neutral economy requires political commitment as well as substantial investment and rapid action. It is vital to ensure a just and equitable transition for all stakeholders, leaving no one behind. Explore how to unlock the necessary investment, both from the EU and national public sectors, and from the private sector.

A place of calm: Spiritual impulses from various religious and philosophical backgrounds invite you to contemplate and reflect. Inspiring initiators tell their stories, take you on a journey of the mind and initiate moments of genuine stillness. 

Get inspired for your future career or maybe secure your next job at an exciting company. Talent Forum offers all attendees holders the opportunity to get in touch and network with leading companies from Austria and Europe in an uncomplicated way. Take advantage of this unique opportunity and find your new professional challenge.

The negative social, emotional and environmental consequences of our current model of economic growth are becoming ever more evident. Planetary resources are finite and emissions from production and consumption steadily increase. What model works best to achieve economic, social and planetary wellbeing? Hear three visions and challenge the speakers with your questions. 

Dancing in the parking garage - join us for an unforgettable evening with a concert and DJ set: 

The Viennese band DIVES met at a music camp for women, inter and trans people in 2015. They have since perfected their brand of stirring multivocal indiepop with DYI vibes, characterised by lyrics about everyday sexism and self care, friendship and summer nights.

As a DJ Tonica Hunter has founded collectives and events and DJ'd at many festivals and cultural spaces. Hunter describes their sound as a merger of their Jamaican roots, their London upbringing and their ties to Africa as a member of the Diaspora - as well as the navigation of those identities.

Rise and shine: Enjoy the first rays of sunshine on the top of Alpbach. Experience this special atmosphere and start your day energised! 
 
 //INFO: The hike is not recommended for beginners! Please wear hiking boots, bring water and possibly a small snack. Participation at your own risk! 

Start the day with a boost of energy! The trainers of the Austrian Armed Forces will get you sweating with military functional fitness on the forecourt of the CCA - an ideal way to recover from stress and prevent burnout or illness. 

A place of calm: Spiritual impulses from various religious and philosophical backgrounds invite you to contemplate and reflect. Inspiring initiators tell their stories, take you on a journey of the mind and initiate moments of genuine stillness. 

Start your Alpbach day well-informed: our Morning Briefings give you a daily overview of EFA24’s most important news and insights. Listen to exciting interviews and meet with inspirational speakers and panelists!

The war in Ukraine has brought a new sense of urgency to the EU enlargement process. The European Council opened accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. Now comes the hard part, as the candidate countries in the Western Balkans know only too well. We will discuss what Ukraine and Moldova can learn from their experiences and what impact the new momentum driven by Ukraine has on the enlargement process in the Western Balkans and in general. 

Digital technologies have fundamentally changed the way businesses operate and people interact. While many jobs will be lost along the way, many more will be created and almost all will be transformed. What will the future of work look like? Discuss how policy makers, companies and societies can ensure that workers acquire the skills needed to succeed in an ever-changing labour market. //INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water.

Young people are increasingly powerful agents of change, driving innovative solutions and advocating for progressive policies on a global scale. We aim to illuminate the pivotal role of youth in shaping policies worldwide, exploring their diverse contributions – such as involving first-time voters or training other young change-makers – and charting pathways for meaningful youth engagement in decision-making processes.

//INFO: Bring hiking shoes and water.

There will either be a just transition or no transition at all – This is a statement that is often heard. Particularly in times of (anticipated) backsliding on climate action, it is crucial that a) the transition is designed by taking everyone’s needs and interests into account, and b) polarising voices do not dominate the discourse. Explore arguments and policies that really work in addressing the trilemma of social justice, democratic participation and climate action and find out how to best make the case for such policies in order to counter an anti-climate mood. 

Envision a future where sustainable energy powers Europe’s industry. Explore how partnerships between industry, green energy producers, and public stakeholders are tackling climate challenges and enhance economies along with innovations such as cross-border Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). Join us to shape Europe’s energy future and drive collective action towards a greener future. 

As part of the EFA World of Women* initiative, EFA is taking extra efforts to encourage female* contributors, both in programming and participation. Every day, from the Europe in the World Days to the Austria in Europe Days, one dedicated hour will be hosted by women* engaged in EFA’s broader network, which offers the opportunity to connect, reflect, and take action.

// INFO: To ensure a focused and engaging experience, we won't be providing any catering. Participants are, however, free to order lunch and beverages at their own cost. //

Come and meet fellow participants who share an interest for the same track topic. Get to know each other over lunch and debate the current programme highlights and main controversies so far.

Join and discuss with us current and most important topics.

Welcome to the Alpbach IDEAS Infopoint, a dedicated space during the lunch break, where potential participants of the Alpbach IDEAS programme can gather information and engage in conversations on ideas for a more democratic and sustainable Europe. This daily event offers the opportunity to learn more about the Alpbach IDEAS programme and process, and exchange ideas with experts on specific topics.  

Have you heard the good news? It’s a historic election year: the ideal time for a playful reflection on the utopian potential of elections and democracy itself. Take part in two utopian election campaigns and work with the campaign teams as they prepare for a collective performative election rally.

A balanced diet should provide all macro- and micronutrients a person needs to remain healthy. Food’s affordability and accessibility often stand as barriers. At the same time, we need to ensure that food is produced in a way that creates a more resilient future of our planet and its people. So how can the dietary needs over the human lifespan be addressed in a sustainable manner?

In this historic election year, we are confronted with the multifaceted challenges posed by state-sponsored disinformation more than ever before. This includes voter manipulation and defamation campaigns. Explore the learnings we can draw from these attacks on electoral integrity and identify strategies to best protect the democratic electoral process of the future.

The US and the EU are both pushing their green industries, but they are taking different approaches. The recent US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) sent a clear message that green technology is a profitable industry. This has raised concerns in Europe that companies will choose to invest in the US rather than in Europe. What can Europe learn from the US to unlock private investment in clean technologies and which opportunities for cooperation exist?

The session will visualise greener urban landscapes, focusing on transforming urban spaces globally to ensure a sustainable and livable future. The discussion delves into the practical realisation of these concepts, aiming to create environmentally sustainable urban environments that are well-prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

The EU has made commitments to support Africa in its climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts. At the same time, the EU’s climate diplomacy actions could contribute to a potential slowing down of African economic growth. How can the two continents shape a relationship that advances decarbonisation without creating trade barriers, that is, a relationship that is reciprocal and fit for the challenges of the 21st century? //INFO: Bring hiking shoes and sufficient water. 

Central Banks around the globe are developing Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). This could challenge the current dollar-based system. A single CBDC may have an enormous standard-setting effect. If the digital euro becomes the standard-setter on its promise of privacy, Europe could regain ownership of its financial infrastructure, increase competitiveness and change geopolitical positions.

Consumers encounter packaging every day. Packaging plays a major role in preserving the valuable content inside but also for the ecological perception by consumers. A transformation towards more circularity and less environmental impact is necessary. The discussion will explore how packaging design has already changed and will have to change over the next half decade to achieve greenhouse gas reduction goals, especially in the context of policy regulation. 

This networking format is for those who want to make new acquaintances. Regardless of whether you are attending the EFA for the first time or have been a participant for years: Our moderators will skilfully break the ice and ensure that connections spark.

Former US President Trump’s statements about NATO shocked European allies and raised doubts about the continued reliability of the US as Europe’s security guarantor. Will Europe be able to defend and promote its way of life without the US? What does it take to achieve more sovereignty in terms of security and defence?

The more the global community delays its climate actions, the more drastic they will have to be. At the same time, disasters and looming crises unite individuals and organisations to achieve the previously unthinkable. What are moonshot moments of transformation that will bring global climate goals on track in the imminent future? How can we redesign our social and economic systems to prioritise sustainability, regeneration, and resilience in face of the risk of missing the 1.5-degree target? 

Tyrol welcomes Europe: The Alphof terrace transforms into a dance floor. Let’s embrace this occasion, meet new people, clink our glasses and take in the vibrant Alpbach ambiance. 

Start the day with a boost of energy! The trainers of the Austrian Armed Forces will get you sweating with military functional fitness on the forecourt of the CCA - an ideal way to recover from stress and prevent burnout or illness. 

A place of calm: Spiritual impulses from various religious and philosophical backgrounds invite you to contemplate and reflect. Inspiring initiators tell their stories, take you on a journey of the mind and initiate moments of genuine stillness. 

Start your Alpbach day well-informed: our Morning Briefings give you a daily overview of EFA24’s most important news and insights. Listen to exciting interviews and meet with inspirational speakers and panelists!

To close out the Europe in the World Days, an in-depth ex-post analysis of the previous European Commission cycle and an ex-ante analysis for the upcoming one are completed while looking for a broad vision for the future of the EU. 

While affordable housing models thrive in Austria, they have almost ceased to exist in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), where the vast majority of the population lives in their own dwelling. Following a recent surge in real estate prices, flats in the region’s major cities have become the most expensive in the European Union, posing a real challenge, especially for the younger generation. We’ll delve into the strategies to leverage Austria’s experience in creating new ways towards affordable housing in CEE. 

Talking brings people together. The pursuit of a “moment of truth” demands lively discussions, contrasting views, and an exchange of ideas. Bold perspectives are encouraged! By answering five questions, you are matched with a thought-provoking discussion partner and engage in a spirited one-to-one discussion aimed at providing both participants with new insights. Who knows, maybe you’ll even discover that you and your discussion partner have more in common than you’d initially thought? At the very least, you’ll leave with new perspectives.

// Please arrive on time to avoid missing the “matching” of participants, as this only occurs once. 

As part of the EFA World of Women* initiative, EFA is taking extra efforts to encourage female* contributors, both in programming and participation. Every day, from the Europe in the World Days to the Austria in Europe Days, one dedicated hour will be hosted by women* engaged in EFA’s broader network, which offers the opportunity to connect, reflect, and take action.

// INFO: To ensure a focused and engaging experience, we won't be providing any catering. Participants are, however, free to order lunch and beverages at their own cost. //

If you don’t feel like having lunch by yourself or if you are interested in meeting fellow EFA participants, take a seat at one of the EFA Connects tables around lunchtime. We look forward to seeing you make connections. EFA Connects tables are located in Erste Lounge at CCA, and at the restaurants Jakober and Berghof. The tables are marked by little EFA flags.

Regional farmers and producers meet urban foodies. Enjoy your lunch break over a variety of culinary delights and get inspired by the topic of sustainable nutrition. After taking some refreshment, let’s head to the opening of the Austria in Europe Days. Bon Appétit! 

Join and discuss with us current and most important topics.

Welcome to the Alpbach IDEAS Infopoint, a dedicated space during the lunch break, where potential participants of the Alpbach IDEAS programme can gather information and engage in conversations on ideas for a more democratic and sustainable Europe. This daily event offers the opportunity to learn more about the Alpbach IDEAS programme and process, and exchange ideas with experts on specific topics.  

Start your Alpbach day well-informed: our Morning Briefings give you a daily overview of EFA24’s most important news and insights. Listen to exciting interviews and meet with inspirational speakers and panelists!

Start your Alpbach day well-informed: our Morning Briefings give you a daily overview of EFA24’s most important news and insights. Listen to exciting interviews and meet with inspirational speakers and panelists!

Start your Alpbach day well-informed: our Morning Briefings give you a daily overview of EFA24’s most important news and insights. Listen to exciting interviews and meet with inspirational speakers and panelists!