Since 2011, The State of the Union (SOU) is an annual conference on European affairs, organized by the European University Institute (EUI) in Florence, Italy.(2011). May 2011. Florence, capital of Europe Comparing Europe at Palazzo Vecchio Festival d'Europa. Retrieved 10 March 2021 The conference provides a platform for discussion on issues affecting the European Union, attracting political leaders, policymakers, and experts from EU institutions.(2017). State of the Union 2017 conference by the European University Institute: Building a people's Europe European Union Newsroom. Retrieved 15 March 2021
Each SOU conference focuses on a specific theme, which is determined by a Scientific Committee composed of EUI scholars. The agenda is designed to address contemporary challenges facing the EU. The event is typically held around May 9, coinciding with the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration,(2012). The State of the Union 2012 edition to take place on 9-10 May 2012 Istituto di Ricerche per la Pubblica Amministrazione (IRPA). Retrieved 17 March 2021 a milestone in the history of European integration.Kevin Manley (2013). Florence is ‘capital of Europe’ The Florentine. Retrieved 15 March 2021
History The inaugural State of the Union conference was held in 2011 as part of the Festival d'Europa in Florence.(2011). May 2011. Florence, capital of Europe Comparing Europe at Palazzo Vecchio Festival d'Europa. Retrieved 10 March 2021 Following this, the European University Institute assumed sole responsibility for organizing the event, which has since taken place at its campus in Florence.
Editions
2011: The inaugural edition focused on political and economic issues in the EU, including Treaty of Lisbon reforms and post-2008 financial stability. 2014: Addressed Europe's social and political future, featuring a live Spitzenkandidaten debate for the European Commission presidency. 2016: Emphasized gender equality, with women making up 66% of the speakers and 62% of the Scientific Committee. 2017: Focused on European citizenship in light of Brexit, addressing topics like direct democracy and the refugee crisis.(2017). State of The Union 2017 Studio Riprese Firenze. Retrieved 17 March 2021(2017). The State of the Union conference European Investment Bank. Retrieved 17 March 2021(2017). The Latest: Merkel vows fair, constructive Brexit talks Fox News. Retrieved 15 March 2021 2020 (Special Edition): Held online due to COVID-19, with discussions on public health, the economy, and global cooperation.
References
External links The State of the Union