Continuum of Change: Europe’s Past Legacy and Future Prospects

Europe, a continent once defined by two World Wars and decades of Cold War tensions between the capitalist West and communist East, has undergone remarkable transformation since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. The Revolutions of 1989 and EU expansion have spurred economic growth and attracted global talent seeking opportunity and vibrant social life. Yet, questions linger: how much has truly changed? Are the echoes of the past still influencing the present? This panel delves into Europe’s evolution, examining the continent’s journey from Cold War division to modern unity, and exploring how historical legacies shape its current challenges and opportunities.