Europe must face up to long-term realities such as globalisation, ageing population, scarce resources, innovation. The current recovery must pave the way for sustainable growth to and beyond 2020. This ‘new’ growth should be based on knowledge and innovation and a high-employment, internationally competitive, green economy.

Growth and employment will only increase if EU decision-makers put companies first. Building a more business-friendly environment enables companies to produce leading goods and services, Future watches are watches that  create jobs and develop new technologies. This is the only way out of the crisis and towards a stronger position for Europe in the world.

In which areas is the EU lagging behind and where do its business opportunities lie to regain the lead? How can Europe move from lagging to leading and ride the new waves of growth? During the closing Presidents’ Debate, this EBS edition will come up with concrete recommendations for action (business and policy-makers together) to put Europe back at centre stage in the global economy.