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Europe on the path to a values-driven economy

Friday May 8, 2026

The Utrecht Europe Day Committee is organising the annual Europe Day Symposium on Friday 8 May 2026. Despite these turbulent times and Europe’s defensive position on the world stage, there are promising opportunities for Europe to distinguish itself in a positive light: namely, by strengthening what is already strong – the European economy. But by charting its own course!

Following the publication of his recent book 'Continent of Quality – How Europe Can Chart Its Own Economic Course' (BOT Publishers), economist Paul Schenderling will deliver the keynote address at the Europe Day Symposium.

In his work, he advocates for the restoration of values in the economy and for a fundamental European choice for quality over purely quantitative growth – an approach that aligns closely with the pursuit of broad prosperity and European core values. This ambition fits seamlessly with the goals of the Green Deal, including the circular economy, and with Europe as a community of values based on rules.

Moderated by Manuela Kalsky, Associate Professor of Religion, Values and Social Transformations at the University of Humanistic Studies in Utrecht, there will be a panel discussion featuring four panellists from various sectors of society. Drawing on their expertise, they will offer their reflections on the lecture:

• Drs. B. (Bas) Eickhout, Member of the European Parliament and co-chair of the ‘Greens/European Free Alliance’ (EVA) group, member of GroenLinks-PvdA, primarily involved in environmental and climate policy issues;
• Drs. R. (Rachel) Heijne, director of the Dutch Recycling Trade Association;
• Mr. M. (Martin) Hof, sector manager for consumer electronics at the trade association Techniek Nederland, and a member of the Consumer Goods Transition Team within the Government-wide Circular Economy Programme;
• Mr G. (Gijs) de Kruif, Member of the Provincial Executive of Utrecht (CDA) responsible for Nature and Agriculture, Rural Transition, ‘Groen Groeit Mee’ and European Affairs (nominated).

This initiative is made possible in part by the Utrecht Platform for Philosophy of Life and Religion (UPLR) and other religious and secular organisations, such as Utrecht University and the University of Humanistic Studies. The symposium will be held in Dutch. Keep an eye on our website www.europadagutrecht.nl and our Facebook page.

Date Friday May 8, 2026, one day before Europeday, language Dutch
Location Dom Church, Achter Sint Pieter 1, 3512 JN Utrecht; main entrance Domplein
Time 20:00 - 22:00 hour, walk in 19:30 hour
Drinks and snacks 22:00 – 22:30 hour
Entrance free admission, donations welcome (cash and PIN)
Registering required www.europadagutrecht.nl
More information Frans de Wolff, phone +31 (0)6 53 14 35 28 and info@europadagutrecht.nl

Download the press release