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The rise of protectionism and nationalist ideologies has become one of the most pressing global challenges in recent years. As far-right and populist movements gain momentum across the world, the European Union faces increasing pressure on its core principles of integration, multilateralism, and democracy. In this context, the EU’s role on the global stage is increasingly uncertain.
The European Student Think Tank (EST) is proud to announce the European Policy Prize 2025, inviting students and recent graduates to submit policy papers that address the implications of rising protectionism and nationalism for the European Union’s vision of integration and multilateralism. This is a unique opportunity to influence the ongoing debate on Europe’s future and contribute actionable solutions to strengthen the EU’s cohesion and global influence.
The theme of this year’s competition will be:
‘Europe and Threats to Globalization‘
Participants are asked to submit a critical essay discussing or proposing a policy to answer one of the following questions:
- How can the EU strengthen internal cohesion in the face of growing far-right and populist movements across Europe?
- What policy initiatives could help safeguard European integration if protectionist and nationalist ideologies continue to rise in key EU member states?
- What policy tools can the EU leverage to ensure that individual member states respect the EU’s values, including democracy, the rule of law, and diversity?
- How does the rise of far-right ideologies outside Europe (e.g., in the U.S. or Argentina) impact the EU’s role as a global promoter of multilateral principles? What steps can the EU take to reinforce its commitment to multilateralism?
Submission Guidelines:
- Policy Paper Requirements: The policy paper should provide a clear and concise analysis of the issue, evaluate potential policy options, and offer actionable recommendations for addressing the challenges posed by protectionism and nationalism. Strong submissions will be well-researched, innovative, and propose feasible solutions grounded in the current political, economic, and social realities of the EU.
- Length: 2,000–2,500 words
- Language: English
- Style: APA 7 citation style
- Abstract: 200 words maximum, along with 5 keywords
- Submission Link: Submit your policy paper here
Deadline for Submission: February 6th, 2025
Prizes for the Winners:
- Common Prize:
- All participants will receive a certificate recognizing their valuable contribution and engagement in the competition.
- Additionally, their names will be highlighted in a special online post to celebrate their efforts.
- First Place:
- Publication of the winning paper in the European Policy Review.
- A dedicated podcast episode discussing the winner’s paper and insights
- Second Place:
- A special “Recognition Post” on our social media channels, featuring a link to the paper and celebrating the achievement.
- Third Place:
- Recognition through the Common Prize in acknowledging their contribution.
Our Esteemed Judges:
- Valerio Alfonso Bruno – Research Fellow at the Catholic University of Milan
- Diederick van Wijk – EU expert at the Clingendael Institute
- Riva Kastoryano – Senior Research Fellow at the CNRS, Science Po
We look forward to receiving your submissions and to engaging in this important conversation about Europe’s future role in the globalized world.
For any inquiries, please contact: editorinchief@esthinktank.com, cc’ing to editorial.projects@esthinktank.com