Africa's Impact on Europe's Future
A discussion with insights from political, economic and demographic perspectives
Oct 01, 2025 / Vienna / Global Affairs / EU Affairs
On October 1, 2025, the Austrian Institute for European and Security Policy (AIES), in cooperation with the Vienna School of International Studies and the Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies (wiiw), hosted a dynamic discussion titled “Africa’s Impact on Europe’s Future.” The leading experts Wolfgang Pusztai (Chairman of the Advisory Board, National Council on U.S.-Libya Relations; Senior Advisor at AIES), Gerald Hainzl (Institute for Peacekeeping and Conflict Management, National Defence Academy Vienna), and Mario Holzner (Director of the Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies, wiiw) examined the evolving role of Africa in shaping Europe’s economic, demographic, and geopolitical landscape. The event was moderated by AIES President Dr. Werner Fasslabend, and participants were welcomed by AIES Director Michael Zinkanell.
The discussion focused on three key areas:
1. Demographic dynamics and economic development: Experts highlighted Africa’s rapidly growing population as both a challenge and an opportunity for Europe. The continent’s expanding workforce and consumer markets were identified as key drivers for future economic engagement.
2. Geopolitical challenges and cooperation: Africa is emerging as a significant player on the global stage. The discussion emphasized the importance of proactive European-African collaboration to ensure stability and mutual development in both regions.
3. Resources and sustainable development: Africa possesses substantial natural resources that could underpin sustainable economic growth. Participants explored opportunities for shared resource management while adhering to environmental standards.
The panelists underscored that Europe’s future will be closely linked to Africa’s development and pointed out the need for strategic partnerships, sustainable policies, and continued dialogue between the continents.
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