Global Economic and Social Policies

To what extent can International Labour Organisation (ILO), environmental and other standards be linked to trade agreements? Would stronger linkages be protectionist and trade-distorting? Are incentives better than sanctions? Is it easier to achieve and action standards in bilateral and regional deals? How can national governments, the World Trade Organisation (WTO), ILO and Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) achieve policy coherence and a reasonable allocation of responsibility?
Location: WILTON PARK

What are the evolving geopolitical risks to the security of oil and gas supply? How should countries attempt to balance resilience and competitiveness in their gas and electricity markets? Which model of market organisation - liberalised, semi liberalised, or concentrated - appears most capable of achieving a sound balance between resilience and competitiveness? Do different market conditions affect the ability of these models to balance resilience and competitiveness? Which model of market organisation appears most likely to facilitate needed investment in energy technology and infrastructure? How can different national approaches to market organisation most efficiently co-exist within a more integrated European market?
Location: Wilton Park

This annual conference, the 11th in a series, brings together senior financial market practitioners, regulators and experts to discuss topical regulatory, economic and pensions developments in European, US, Asian and global markets. In view of fast moving developments in global financial markets, the precise themes will be decided in early 2008.
Location: WILTON PARK

What are the future trends in global agricultural production and demand? How to ensure a better balance between supply and demand? How can production be increased in developed and developing countries? What role for GM crops? How should the global community balance the competing demands of land for food production and for production of biofuels? What impact will increased energy prices have on future production? How can trade and distribution be better balanced? Who should pay for long-term investment in agricultural production and strategic food reserves? What policy instruments are appropriate at national and international level for countries exporting and importing food?

As the Lisbon process nears its tenth anniversary, what kind of regime will replace the 'open coordination' method on economic reform? How can Europe remain competitive in the global economy whilst at the same time ensuring social solidarity and promoting green growth? How can the recommendations of the Spring 2009 Council be best taken forward? How can national efforts be made more effective? What is an appropriate balance between progressing economic reform at the Member State and Community levels?
Location: Germany