In the first episode of Radio Schuman in 2025, the focus is on the fears and uncertainties that Europe faces after the events of 2024. The re-election of Donald Trump as US president is highlighted as a potentially major game changer for Brussels, impacting the balance of power in the EU and relations with countries like Russia and China. With Ursula von der Leyen’s influence growing, the continent is set to experience significant political and policy shifts, including discussions on the EU Multiannual Financial Framework, defence spending, migration reforms, competitiveness, energy security, and budget deficits in EU economies.
Euronews reporter Paula Soler is featured in the episode to provide insight into what lies ahead for Europe in 2025. The upcoming elections in Germany will play a key role in potentially changing the balance of power in the EU, while global uncertainties such as the possibility of Trump’s re-election will have implications for international relations. Key policy discussions will revolve around crucial topics like defence spending, migration reforms, competitiveness, energy security, and addressing budget deficits in EU economies. These issues will be at the forefront of decision-making in Brussels in the coming year.
The episode also touches upon recent political developments, including the presidential election in Croatia and the inaugural MEP delegation of the year as it embarks on its work abroad. The team looks at the roster and game plan of the delegation, highlighting the importance of their work in representing the interests of European citizens on the international stage. Additionally, the episode explores the growing trend of electronic cigarettes, or vapes, as a potential alternative to traditional smoking. The popularity of these nicotine devices is increasing across Europe, prompting further discussion on their usage and impact on public health.
Radio Schuman is hosted by senior policy reporter Gerardo Fortuna and produced by journalist Eleonora Vasques, with audio editing by Georgios Leivaditis. The music for the episode is provided by Alexandre Jas, adding to the atmosphere and tone of the discussions. As Europe faces a year of uncertainty and change, Radio Schuman aims to inform and engage listeners on the latest political developments and policy discussions shaping the future of the continent. With a focus on key issues like the EU Multiannual Financial Framework, defence spending, migration reforms, competitiveness, energy security, and budget deficits, the podcast provides valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities ahead for Europe in 2025.
Overall, the first episode of Radio Schuman in 2025 sets the stage for a year of significant political and policy shifts in Europe, with the re-election of Donald Trump as US president looming as a potential game changer for Brussels. With Ursula von der Leyen’s influence on the rise and key elections in Germany on the horizon, the balance of power in the EU could be in flux. Global uncertainties, such as Trump’s potential re-election, will also shape relations with major powers like Russia and China. Through insightful discussions and expert analysis, Radio Schuman provides listeners with a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities facing Europe in the year ahead.