CURRENT EDITION

What does Europe need to do to keep up with global competition? (panel discussion)

October 1, 2026 - 16:55 - 17:20
Plenary room
Tracks
Plenary
Policy-making
Type
In person
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As global competition accelerates, Europe faces critical choices that will shape its future prosperity, innovation capacity, and strategic autonomy. What actions are needed today to ensure that Europe remains competitive in an increasingly technology-driven world?

In this closing session, leading voices from policy, industry, research, and the innovation ecosystem will share their perspectives on the most important priorities for strengthening Europe’s position on the global stage. Each panellist will begin with a short reflection on the single most important action Europe should take now to enhance its competitiveness.

The session concludes with an interactive panel discussion exploring the key messages from the conference, identifying areas for collaboration, and discussing how initiatives such as this conference can contribute to building a stronger, more innovative, and globally competitive Europe.

Focus: Innovation, investment, talent, infrastructure, and collaboration for Europe’s future competitiveness.

Moderator: Jeanette Nilsson (RISE)

MODERATORS
Jeanette Nilsson
AI Ecosystem Driver at Research Institutes of Sweden AB (RISE)
SPEAKERS OF THIS SESSION
Edward Curry
Professor / Director at University of Galway / Rinn AI
Stefan Gessler
Project Manager (Senior Position) and Data Protection Officer at NEC Laboratories Europe GmbH
Marc O'Regan
Chief Technology Officer EMEA at Dell Technologies
Paul McElligott
Senior Support Consultant at SAP Ireland
Dirk Vielsaecker
Head of Industry Collaboration & Associations at Siemens AG
Francesca Kay
Assistant Director General, National Data and Statistical Services at Central Statistics Office
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