Europe Center Research & Reports

The Europe Center conducts research to guide the actions and strategy of key transatlantic decision makers on the issues that will shape the future of the transatlantic relationship.

All in-depth research & reports

Issue Brief

Sep 29, 2026

The strategic rationale for closer investment ties between Europe and the Gulf

By Jeffrey Lightfoot

Europe and the Gulf both stand to benefit from investing more in each region. Which projects make the most sense?

Economy & Business Europe

Issue Brief

Sep 29, 2026

Trade and connectivity in the Europe-Gulf strategic partnership

By Valbona Zeneli

Boosting trade between European and Gulf states requires progress on two key projects planned to connect the regions: the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, and a free trade agreement. Can the disruption caused by the Iran war provide an impetus to move these stalled projects forward?

Economy & Business Europe

Issue Brief

Sep 29, 2026

Three principles to guide European-Gulf defense cooperation

By Jean-Loup Samaan

How can Europe and Gulf cooperate more effectively on defense?

Defense Industry Europe

Issue Brief

Sep 29, 2026

How Europe and the Gulf can unite behind an energy-transition agenda

By Ariel Ezrahi

European and Gulf states share a strong interest in restoring the free flow of energy cut off by the Iran war, and in reducing their economies' exposure to chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. What's their best path forward?

Energy Transitions Europe

Report

Sep 4, 2026

The right wing takes aim at the EU’s linchpin

By Jeffrey Gedmin

Germany's far-right AfD party is closing in on a once-unthinkable prize: an absolute majority in a state government. As polls show the party in the lead ahead of Saxony-Anhalt's September 6 election, can the center hold? 

Elections European Union

Report

Jul 29, 2026

Boosting the Western Balkans’ digital transformation: The key role of the private sector

By Jelisaveta Lazarević and Zoja Kukic Dordevic

In the Western Balkans, the private sector can play a meaningful role in promoting economic development through information and communication technology and digitalization.

Economy & Business Europe & Eurasia

In-Depth Research & Reports

Jul 6, 2026

A stronger Europe in NATO—the way forward

By Anna Wieslander and Louise Blomqvist

This report analyzes what a stronger Europe in NATO means in practice, how European allies can take greater responsibility without weakening the cohesion of the Alliance, and what role Sweden can play.

Northern Europe Security & Defense

Issue Brief

Jun 30, 2026

Looking to a decade of delivery: The Three Seas Initiative charts its course forward

By Emma Nix and Ian Brzezinski

The Three Seas Initiative aims to bolster investment in cross-border energy, digital, and transport infrastructure to fuel regional prosperity and security.

Central Europe Economy & Business

Issue Brief

May 29, 2026

Can the EU’s mutual-defense clause replace NATO’s Article 5?

By James Batchik and Katherine Johnson

The European Union's mutual-defense clause, less well-known than NATO's commitment under Article 5 that an attack on one is an attack on all, is receiving new attention in light of questions over the US security commitment to Europe.

European Union NATO

Issue Brief

May 8, 2026

Can Friedrich Merz’s chancellorship survive?

By Phyllis Berry

One year into his chancellorship, Friedrich Merz heads a government beset by economic stagnation, low public approval, and coalition tensions.

Economy & Business Elections