The European Union celebrates what is considered the anniversary of the creation of the EU, the 'Schuman Declaration' of 1950, every May. On that occasion, French foreign minister, Robert Schumann, set out a vision for peace, unity, and political cooperation across the continent. To celebrate Europe Day 2021, IES hosted a conversation with Irish Member of the European Parliament, Frances Fitzgerald.
This event offers us the chance to reflect on the vast strides the EU has made over the last 71 years; the newly renewed transatlantic relationship as well as Ireland's place therein; some challenges on which the USA and Europe are working together in climate change and cyber security; and of current issues such as the recovery from Covid-19 and the world after Brexit. MEP Fitzgerald is joined in conversation by IES Associate Director Akasemi Newsome, and Robert O'Driscoll, Consul General of Ireland in San Francisco. Introductions by Catherine Flynn, Director of Irish Studies and Professor of English at UC Berkeley.