Conference on European Economic Integration (CEEI 2026)

CESEE in a changing world: geoeconomics, technology and demographic shift

The world is undergoing transformation at an unprecedented pace, driven by escalating geopolitical conflicts, rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, and profound demographic shifts. These forces are reshaping global dynamics and creating an era of heightened uncertainty. Like other regions, the economies of Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe (CESEE) are exposed to these sweeping changes, which pose significant risks to economic growth in the coming years.

Despite these challenges it is important to recognize that CESEE economies have achieved remarkable success over recent decades, demonstrating a strong ability to adapt quickly to new realities. The CEEI 2026 will explore four key themes that are shaping the future of CESEE countries: 

• geopolitics and geoeconomics, 
• demographic shifts, 
• the transformative impact of technological innovation and AI and
• the role of the state in a changing world

All of these topics carry both immediate and long-term consequences for CESEE and for the EU as a whole. The CEEI 2026 thus aims to address the critical question: How can CESEE countries prepare for and take advantage of these fundamental changes to ensure continued successful convergence and support a stronger and more resilient EU in the future?

Winner of the 2024 Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel Professor Simon Johnson and designated ECB Vice President Boris Vujčić have confirmed their participation.

Date
23 and 24 November 2026

Venue
Oesterreichische Nationalbank
Otto-Wagner-Platz 3
1090 Vienna

More details will follow.