Why it Matters:

The evolving dynamics between Europe and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region hold profound significance in today's global landscape. As we navigate an era marked by rapid transformations, understanding and addressing critical issues becomes imperative for fostering regional stability and international cooperation. The themes of Migration, Security, Multilateralism, Energy, Climate, Trade, and Development are pivotal as they intersect with the core challenges and opportunities shaping the destinies of both Europe and the MENA region. By delving into these topics, experts can illuminate pathways toward enhanced collaboration, sustainable development, and geopolitical equilibrium in two interconnected regions that play pivotal roles in shaping the world's future and whose security is vital for US national security interests.

Submission Guidelines:

• We require up to 500-word abstract submissions until March 1st, 2024, 23:59 EST to be considered.
• Please submit abstract submissions, a resume or CV, and a list of recent publications to mep@wilsoncenter.org with "Future of Europe and MENA Relations" in the subject line.
• Individuals and organizations can submit proposals for multiple paper ideas.
• All abstract submissions must be in English.

Themes

Migration:

Explore the complex dynamics of migration and forced displacement between the MENA region and Europe. Examine the factors influencing migration patterns and assess the effectiveness of migration (and asylum) policies and migration management across both regions. Investigate the consequences of migration and human mobility, such as brain drain, forced displacement, irregular migration, (re)integration, etc. 

Security:

Investigate the evolving security landscape in the context of Europe and MENA. Address regional conflicts, geopolitical challenges, and potential pathways for fostering dialogue and building cooperative security frameworks to ensure stability.

Multilateralism:

Analyze the role of multilateral institutions or groupings in fostering collaboration between Europe and MENA. Assess the effectiveness of existing frameworks and propose innovative approaches to press forward on addressing common challenges.

Energy and Climate:

Delve into the intertwined issues of energy security and climate change. Explore sustainable energy practices, environmental challenges, and opportunities for collaboration between Europe and MENA in addressing energy security and climate-related concerns.

Trade:

Examine the dynamics of trade relations between Europe and MENA, including the current state of economic cooperation, existing barriers to trade, and potential avenues for fostering inclusive and mutually beneficial trade partnerships.

Development:

Investigate the socio-economic development in the MENA region and its connection to Europe. Explore strategies and tools for promoting inclusive development, addressing inequalities, and fostering economic policies that benefit both regions.

Digital Economy:

Examine and elucidate the various dimensions of the digital economy, shedding light on its implications for the present and future of global economic landscapes as well as the role of misinformation and disinformation in impacting those relations.

Publication Details:

• Selected experts will be expected to deliver papers ranging from 2500 to 5000 words.
• The Wilson Center will handle copy-editing, publishing, and promotion, featuring the researcher's byline and affiliation.
• Wilson Center will provide competitive compensation/honorarium  for qualifying submissions. 
• The Wilson Center will copy-edit, publish, and promote all submissions and reserves the right to revise or refuse any submission. The Wilson Center will be recognized as the sole owner and publisher of all completed work and will recognize all contributing authors and their affiliations accordingly.
• The authors may be invited to present their policy briefs in DC depending on the number of qualifying submissions received.

Submission Deadline: March 1st, 2024

Join us in shaping the discourse on the Future of Europe and MENA Relations. Your insights can contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this dynamic and evolving relationship. Submit your abstracts and be part of this significant dialogue.

For inquiries, please contact us at mep@wilsoncenter.org or gep@wilsoncenter.org

Thank you for your interest in advancing knowledge and fostering meaningful discussions.