A message from Friends of Europe

Dear members, partners, and friends,

These are uncertain times that are challenging us on an individual, national and global level. Throughout this time, we remain focused on our community, our team and our work.

First and foremost, our thoughts are with those personally affected by the virus. Our thanks and respect go to health care workers and people working in jobs that do not allow them to stay at home, whose jobs are critical to our society and keeping our cities and towns afloat.

These are critical times. Indeed, the impact of this pandemic throws into sharp focus many of the weaknesses in European, regional and global governance and cooperative mechanisms. This is not a time for selfish nationalism, but of collaboration, empathy, solidarity. This virus knows no borders, it doesn’t discriminate.

Good leadership is essential, not only in dealing with this crisis, but in tackling the challenges facing all of us.

As a think tank in these times, Friends of Europe remains open, and has a responsibility to continue to encourage and support all efforts of bold and modern leadership. Of course, as everyone is experiencing, we will have to adapt how we work, collaborate and share insights in the weeks and months ahead.

We are determined to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our team members and our community. Our staff are working from home and our insightful debates are moving primarily online. Thanks to our partnership with TownHall Europe, we have the technology to bring in experts from around the world remotely, and continue to provide the standard of events we have strived to deliver for the past 20 years.

While we may not see each other in person for a while, you will see us regularly in your inboxes and on your screens.

Thank you for your continued support. Do let us know if you have any further questions or suggestions.

Best wishes to you and yours.

From the Friends of Europe team