In the report “A Stronger Europe Requires Stronger Economies – Why is the EU Falling Behind?”, Fredrik Erixon, economist and director of the think tank ECIPE (European Centre for International Political Economy), provides a thorough analysis of why and how the EU’s economy has lagged behind and been overtaken by others in recent decades. The EU’s share of the global economy is decreasing and is expected to continue doing so, partly due to low growth and unfavorable demographic trends.
To counter its decline and address geopolitical challenges, Europe needs to become more attractive to the global community through high growth, innovation, and world-leading universities. Policies must focus on enhancing economic dynamism and attracting international investments. Erixon notes in the report that the EU needs to increase investments in research and development (R&D) and capital formation, as well as break down barriers in the digital economy and financial services. However, political developments in the EU have often moved in the opposite direction, complicating the implementation of these much-needed reforms.
Do note that this report is in Swedish.