Brussels Public Affairs Forum 2024

9:00 – 9:50

Keynote: “The Geopolitics of the EU in the Aftermath of the EU Elections”

The keynote session of the Brussels Public Affairs Forum will explore:

• Europe in the world – where does Europe
• Geopolitical implications (for the EU and beyond) of the European elections of June 2024
• Challenges facing the continent (and EU institutions in particular) in the aftermath of the vote

9:50 – 10:00

Networking break

10:00 – 10:50

Session 1: “Leadership in Public Affairs – Navigating an Evolving Political Landscape in Europe and Beyond”

Join this conversation with leaders of European and global organizations, who will discuss:

• Challenges facing businesses in a year of intense (and potentially disruptive) political activity
• The role public affairs leaders can play in helping organizations navigate uncertainty and shape business response to rising public expectations
• How can companies collaborate with governments to address social issues and adapt to disruptive trends

10:50 – 11:00

Networking break

11:00 – 11:50

Session 2: “From Planning to Implementation – Insights and Lessons Learned on Delivering Successful Strategies in Brussels”

This session will explore some of the key strategic challenges facing public affairs professionals today:

• Strategic planning in a context of political and business uncertainty – how to be flexible, adapt to disruptive trends, and manage political and reputational risks?
• Implementing your public affairs strategy in Brussels and across Europe – insights and advice to manage teams, implement successful campaigns and collaborate across borders
• Incorporating technology and innovative approaches in public affairs work

11:50 – 12:00

Networking break

12:00 – 12:50

Session 3: “Communicating and Building Alliances in an Increasingly Polarised International Landscape”

Join this panel discussion to hear from communication and public affairs leaders on:

• How does a polarized political environment and public disinformation impact the way organizations communicate externally? How to collaborate with stakeholders with diverging perspectives?
• How can alliances and coalitions enhance your chances of success in public affairs and communication, and how to manage them effectively?
• Tactics and tools to engage with policy-makers and other stakeholders on challenging topics
• How can organizations differentiate their communication in a context where attention is scarce?

12:50 – 13:30

Networking lunch