What is Going Wrong in Europe and the UK, Specifically?

Image: Unsplash, Oskar Młodziński
Image: Unsplash, Oskar Młodziński

On 8 December, SAIIA's Western Cape branch hosted this event where we analysed how fragmented politics, slow growth and rising tensions impacted Europe's role on the global stage.

This event explored the underlying political, economic, and social pressures that have pushed Europe – and the UK, in particular – into a period of instability and self-doubt. Former member of the European Parliament Robert Jackson examined how forces such as fragmented politics, sluggish economic performance, and rising geopolitical tensions are reshaping the region’s global role. He also discussed whether Europe can regain strategic coherence or if it’s entering a long era of fragmentation and diminished influence.

This content features on the G20 Resource Centre.

8 Dec 2025