Globalisation affects everyone. Greater interdependence makes people and markets more vulnerable to what is happening elsewhere. At the same time, globalization opens up new possibilities. The seminar analysed the role of Europe in a changing world and globalized economy. It raised the question whether the EU can provide effective political leadership in coping with the challenges of globalization. In particular, the seminar focused on the adjustment of the political system to global warming and the future of the European social model. Can the EU find successful responses to current conflicts such as climate change? Will businesses follow? And how can regulatory standards help to soften the negative impacts of globalization while keeping Europe economically attractive?