Panel Discussion: Resetting Transatlantic Relations One Year After the US Elections

What did the past 12 months tell us about transatlantic relations?

This question was at the center of the discussion that gathered Dr Ian LESSER (Chair of Transatlantic Trade and Economy, College of Europe), Professor Michael KOPLOVSKY (Professor, Master of Arts in Transatlantic Affairs programme, College of Europe) and Dr Leslie VINJAMURI (President & Chief Executive Officer, Chicago Council on Global Affairs), under the moderation of Professor Michele CHANG (Director, Master of Arts in Transatlantic Affairs programme, College of Europe), on Monday 17 November, 2025.

Thanks to the exceptional participation of the audience based in Bruges, Boston and Natolin, panelists exchanged views on a broad range of topics, including the meaning of “resetting” transatlantic relations, the transnational (and transatlantic) dynamic of democratic backsliding, the Trump administration’s Venezuelan policy, cuts in USAID funds and their impact across the globe, or the dynamics driving technology innovation in the EU. While the consequences “could have been worse” for certain aspects of the transatlantic partnership, what can Europeans do to avoid “settling” for the status quo?

The Master of Arts in Transatlantic Affairs (MATA) programme and the Chair of Transatlantic Trade and Economy thank everyone who made this event a success, from the colleagues and staff members who supported its organisation to all the participants who not only attended but helped turn this panel discussion into a lively and meaningful dialogue on the future of the transatlantic partnership!

Photos of the Event