Connected Continent
Improving movement and
shared infrastructure.
Collective Well-Being
Advancing health, welfare,
and security for all.
Green Frontier
Environmental stewardship
and clean energy.
Economic Engine
Driving trade, business,
and competitiveness.
Better by design
Design shapes how we experience the world. It turns ideas into reality, complexity into clarity, ambition into action. At 21st Europe, we see design as a driving force for change—one that makes the future feel tangible and possible. Where others see obstacles, design finds direction. It connects ideas to people, uncovers patterns in chaos, and brings structure to possibility. At its best, it makes the complex feel simple—and the simple, significant.
This belief is at the heart of our plan. To shape Europe’s next chapter, we don’t just critique the present—we design what comes next. Our plan unfolds in three steps: first, we design blueprints for a new Europe; then, we spark the conversations needed to bring them to life; and finally, we build the network that turns vision into momentum.
STEP 01
Design new blueprints
We believe vision is the first step toward change. Our goal is to create blueprints for a new Europe — clear, actionable, and inspiring. Too often, Europe is weighed down by complexity and uninspiring symbols. We aim to offer something different: pathways that feel possible and ideas that resonate.
Starting in 2025, we’ll release quarterly blueprints developed with design partners and expert panels. Each blueprint tackles a key issue, beginning with bold, tangible visions before working backward to explore how they can be made real. These aren’t distant dreams — they’re research-driven pathways that spark conversation, challenge old thinking, and open up new perspectives on Europe’s future.
STEP 02
Spark new conversations
Visions alone don’t move mountains. They need voices, energy, and engagement. That’s why we aim to spark conversations that matter. 21st Europe isn’t just about presenting ideas; it’s about creating spaces where ideas come alive. Through media, events, and unexpected collaborations, we bring together youth, innovators, thinkers, and leaders to ignite debates that cut across borders.
These aren’t policy papers or passive panels. Our conversations turn complex ideas into stories that challenge, inspire, and connect. By transforming abstract concepts into shared narratives, we create space for people and partners to reimagine and debate Europe’s next chapter — because at the heart of the continent’s future are its people.
STEP 03
Build a new network
Change doesn’t happen in isolation — it’s driven by connections. We believe in the power of relationships to turn visions into reality. Our goal is to build a new network that brings together Europe’s brightest minds — from designers to policymakers, thinkers to leaders. By fostering collaboration, we aim to transform ideas into action.
This isn’t about waiting for change. It’s about connecting the right people in the right spaces, creating a network where collaboration drives momentum. From the design industry to decision-makers and communities, we bring together those with the power to shape Europe’s future. This growing network is ever-evolving, as we continue to identify and connect with people ready take part.
Principles
In our quest to shape the future of Europe, we are guided by three value-driven principles:
We are pragmatic idealists, focused on driving positive change over pointing out problems.
01
We strive for work that is simple yet significant, focusing on what truly matters to leave a lasting impact.
02
We embrace storytelling, turning our work into playful narratives that inspire and connect people.