As Hungary takes the helm of the European Union presidency, a unique opportunity arises to reignite the flame of unity and progressivism within the nation and across the continent. On 25-26 October 2024, the Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS), in collaboration with Solidar, the Group of Socialists & Democrats in the European Parliament (S&D), and Hungarian progressive foundations will organise the “Call to Europe” conference. Policy Solutions is proud to be official Hungarian partner of this prestigious international conference.

This upcoming conference not only symbolises a resurgence of hope but also underscores the urgent need to refocus on how Europe serves its people. Under the motto “A free Hungary in a stronger Europe”, this edition touches upon issues including climate and the just transition, industrial renewal, media freedom, public services, quality housing, gender and equality. At the heart of this event lies a shared vision for a Europe that prioritises sustainable infrastructure, accessible public services, universal welfare, quality housing, and renewable energy. It is a model that sees these elements not just as ideals but as essential drivers of growth and prosperity for all. In Budapest, amidst the exchange of ideas and the forging of alliances, this conference marks a pivotal moment in the journey toward a Europe that truly delivers value for its citizens, guided by principles of solidarity and progress.

Date of the event: 25-26 October 2024

Venue: Merlin Theatre (1052 Budapest, Gerlóczy utca 4.)

Programme and Registration: https://feps-europe.eu/event/call-to-europe-a-free-hungary-in-a-stronger-europe/

Speakers include, among others: 

- Iratxe García Pérez, S&D President

- Birgit Sippel, S&D MEP and Coordinator for the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

- Gaby Bischoff, Member of the European Parliament and S&D Vice-President

- Maria João Rodrigues, FEPS President

- Gergely Karácsony, Mayor of Budapest

- László Andor, FEPS Secretary General, former EU Commissioner

- Klára Dobrev, Head of the Hungarian Delegation, S&D Group

- Daniel Attard, Member of the European Parliament, S&D Group

- Kata Tüttő, Member of the Budapest Assembly and Vice President of the PES Group in the European Committee of the Regions

- Atanas Pekanov, Economist, Austrian Institute of Economic Research (WIFO) and former Deputy Prime Minister of Bulgaria in charge of EU funds

- Petra Bayr, Member of Parliament of Austria and Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Development, Social Democratic Party, Austria

- Liutauras Gudžinskas, Vice President of the Lithuanian Socialist Party LSDP

- András Bíró-Nagy, Director, Policy Solutions

- András Léderer, Head of Advocacy, Hungarian Helsinki Committee

- Ágnes Urbán, Media Analyst, Mertek Media Monitor