European Policy Prize 2025: Call for Policy Papers

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:

  1. How can the EU strengthen internal cohesion in the face of growing far-right and populist movements across Europe?
  2. What policy initiatives could help safeguard European integration if protectionist and nationalist ideologies continue to rise in key EU member states?
  3. 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?
  4. 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 (closed)

Deadline for Submission: February 12th, 2025

Announcement of Winner: 30th of March

Prizes for the Winners:

  • First Place:
    • Publication of the winning paper in the European Policy Review.
    • A dedicated podcast episode discussing the winner’s paper and insights 
    • A career mentoring session with Eva Ribera from TEPSA, who’s also a member of the EST expert advisory board.
    • Additionally, you will receive a certificate recognizing your valuable contribution and engagement in the competition.
    • Your names will be highlighted in a special online post to celebrate your efforts!
  • Second Place:
    • A special “Recognition Post” on our social media channels, featuring a link to the paper and celebrating the achievement.
    • A newly released book by TEPSA entitled The United States and the Future of Europe: Views from the Capitals.
    • Additionally, you will receive a certificate recognizing your valuable contribution and engagement in the competition.
    • Your names will be highlighted in a special online post to celebrate your efforts!
  • Third Place:
    • Free access to the EST academy resources.
    • You will receive a certificate recognizing your valuable contribution and engagement in the competition.
    • Your names will be highlighted in a special online post to celebrate your efforts!

Our Esteemed Judges:

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: editorial.projects@esthinktank.com, cc’ing to editorinchief@esthinktank.com

European Policy Prize 2025 Winners:

1st place

Valeria Sciore

Student in Political Science & International Relations

Title: Defending the European Union: how to protect the Core Values from the Illiberal Threat

Democracy, Fundamental Rights and Rule of Law are three core values within the European Union and their respect is vital to the EU’s very functioning. This paper critically analyzes the current tools the Union has at its disposal to protect these values and finally proposes a new institution that would better ensure the Member States’ compliance with the Criteria, and thus reinforce cohesion and EU’s integrity.

2nd place

Lorenzo Avesani

Junior Fellow at Geopolitica.info

Title: The EU’s migration dilemma in the era of Giorgia Meloni

The victory of the right-wing coalition, led by Brothers of Italy, has reignited debates about Italy’s role in the European migration policy. According to the current Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, curbing illegal migration is a priority as the issue has renewed divisions among Member States. This report analyzes the current landscape and explores practical solutions to enhance EU cohesion on migration.


3rd place

Eva Zimiantini

Researcher in History & Political Thought

Title: Global Shifts and the EU’s Multilateral Future: Navigating Far-Right Populism and Geopolitical Challenges

As global far-right movements challenge multilateralism, the EU is shifting to a pragmatic, interest-based approach to sustain its leadership. This paper explores how the EU can reform global governance structures to stay relevant in an evolving world order.

Evelyn Chen

Student in Economics

Title: Reinforcing European Unity: Strategies for Overcoming Nationalism and Securing the EU’s Future

This paper addresses the growing threats to European integration from rising nationalism and protectionism. It proposes key strategies, including expanding social rights, boosting economic resilience, and strengthening democratic legitimacy. Comprehensive migration reforms and fostering a shared European identity are essential to building trust and unity within the EU. These efforts are vital for safeguarding the future of European solidarity and prosperity.