International Programs

Evaluating the turnover between Vladimir Putin and Dmitri Medvedev at the presidency requires a recognition of the central role that Putin continues to occupy on the Russian political scene. It seems indeed clear that the structure of power in Moscow has remained fundamentally unchanged, although it is possible that Medvedev will walk the path of cautious liberal reforms.The next few years will see, in any case, further efforts to fully exploit the instrument of energy resources and currency reserves at the country’s disposal.

This international workshop focused on the new role energy is playing in global relations, with particular attnetion to the complex relationship between Russia and the European Union as regards energy security. Participants pointed out the need, especially in the West, to diversify supply sources.

The discussion highlighted the speed at which China’s role as a world power is evolving: its influence is growing visibly, although in the presence of undeniable macroeconomic imbalances (internal and external) that are of serious concern for the future.\r\nFrom a strictly economic point of view, a change of perspective is underway, from the prominence of export to investment and partnership – a development fostered by the sizeable liquid assets available to Chinese operators.

Discussion opened with an evaluation of the historic Marshall Plan: its origins, the postwar conditions behind its development, the underlying philosophy of US aid to Europe, the inevitable political and security implications that led to a strong reaction from the USSR. Much was said about the farsighted, multilateral approach taken by the United States at that time, despite its obvious military and economic superiority. American awareness that a complex and flexible international economic system could only be based on cooperation as well as competition was also crucial.

The international workshop on “Securing the European Homeland” was held in Rome last Febraury 2nd. The meeting focused on the threats to internal security in EU countries and on what is currently being done in Brussels and in EU capitals to respond to the risk of terrorism. From the discussion it emerged that steps have been taken in the direction of defining possible threats, to the levels of coordination of safety measures and in terms of security legislation, although there are still great difficulties in determining the dynamics of transnational criminal trends.

The conference opened with a reflection on the Italian and the German economies, their differences and similarities. The priority for Germany is to strengthen domestic demand, given their good performance on international markets and a restructured private sector. Italy needs to become more competitive and to guarantee greater discipline in its fiscal policy. The two countries face some of the same challenges, especially as regards reforming their respective pension systems and health sectors.

The workshop, a novelty for the Institute, was made up entirely of female participants of the utmost authority and prestige. Various issues were discussed: repression of women in Arab countries, social and cultural changes needed to improve conditions and strengthen the economic development of women around the world. Participants highlighted certain obstacles hindering women’s aspirations, such as diverse interpretations of Islamic law, illiteracy and, most of all, poverty.

From the international workshop organized by Aspen Institute Italia at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emerged a proposal to draw up a “road map for the Balkans”. Participants met before an ample audience to discuss the “The Balkans in Europe’s future” and to consider strategies to help integrate southeastern Europe into the EU and other international organizations. The Balkans are relatively stable, military conflict has ceased, ethnic cleansing is a thing of the past, and free elections have been held.