Europe and the United States: One Future?

Date: January 29, 2026

Venue: Prague Crossroads

At a pivotal moment in the Europe-U.S. relations marked by geopolitical realignment and technological disruption, the Aspen Institute Central Europe is bringing together 300 leaders from government, business, academia, and civil society to examine if the transatlantic partnership can remain the cornerstone of global stability, prosperity, and innovation.

This full-day flagship conference and gala dinner will explore the decisive questions shaping our shared future across five key domains: geopolitics, business, education, technology, and energy.

Geopolitics & Strategy

Europe and the United States—Common Goals in a Fragmented World

As new global power centers emerge and Europe-U.S. relations become more transactional, this panel examines the areas where the alliance remains vital — defense, Ukraine, and the challenge posed by China. It explores how to sustain U.S. engagement while strengthening Europe's own capabilities, and how Central Europe can shape the agenda from the frontline of strategic change.

Business & Economic Competitiveness

Shaping a Common Transatlantic Future

The world's most significant economic relationship — between the EU and the U.S. — faces disruptive transformations: digitalization, supply chain reorganization, and climate transition. The panel discusses how transatlantic cooperation can bolster competitiveness, innovation, and resilience to effectively face these new challenges.

Technology, AI and Cybersecurity

American Innovation vs. European Regulation

Artificial intelligence and digital transformation are reshaping societies faster than regulation can keep pace. The U.S. champions rapid market-driven innovation, while Europe favors deliberate oversight. This panel examines whether these philosophies can converge, and how to build a transatlantic framework for innovation, security, and democratic values in the AI era.

Energy Security & Climate Resilience

Transatlantic Energy Security

The EU-U.S. energy relations keep evolving around the balance between energy security, economic pragmatism, and climate ambition. Under the new U.S.-EU trade framework, the European Union intends to purchase energy products, including oil, LNG, and nuclear fuel. This panel discusses related opportunities and challenges, including infrastructure limitations, the transition away from fossil fuels, and the need for regulatory and technological alignment.

Education

Making Systems Future-Ready: Investing Early

Early childhood education is not just about children - it is about the adults they will become. In an era defined by AI, and shifting labor markets, building future-ready education systems is one of the most impactful and cost-effective investments societies can make. This panel explores how evidence-based policies and strategic funding in early education can unlock long-term societal benefits.

The Conference will be chaired by Michala Hergetová.

*Change of the program is reserved.