I’m not a farmhand: In 2016 there were over three times more farm managers over the age of 65 than under the age of 40. This ageing population of farmers threatens the EUs long term food security. With European youth finding the agricultural industry generally unappealing as a career choice, what can the EU do to secure the future of its agricultural industry?
Rise from the ashes: The Russian invasion of Ukraine has caused widespread damage to infrastructure, housing, and services, costing over an estimated 550 million euros. With the EU committing itself to supporting Ukraine in the ongoing conflict, how should the EU support the eventual recovery of Ukraine after the war?
Let’s get to work: 45%-60% of all employed EU citizens see themself at risk of being replaced by automation before 2030. This concern is not unrealistic as, theoretically, 50% of all jobs globally could be automated. This threat is even bigger to those who lack higher education. What steps should the EU take to ensure job security in the age of digital transformation, without limiting the freedom of businesses?
Listen to your lungs: Smoking forms the biggest avoidable health risk in the EU, causing more than 700.000 deaths per year EU wide. The use of tobacco is currently declining, however e-cigarettes are on the rise, particularly in young people. Next to that, (e-)cigarettes pose a threat to a clean environment, as they produce toxic chemicals and pollute our air, soil and waters. What should the EU do to protect their citizens and the earth from the risks of smoking (e-)cigarettes?
Women in STEM: Gender diversity in STEM fields has proven to encourage innovation, and is estimated to increase the EU GDP per capita with 3% in 2050 if done right. Women are however still unrepresented in this field, due to stereotypes, low self-confidence and the lack of female role models. How can the EU encourage women to enter the STEM field, and fight the stereotypes these women face?
Storing your data sustainably: Europe is rapidly building data centres to keep up with the increase of digital goods and services, like cryptocurrency and NFT's. Unfortunately, these centres have proven to be highly energy-hungry, and also negatively affect the environment through its water- and land use. How can the EU protect their physical environment, whilst enabling citizens to enjoy the digital environment?