From May 11-15, 2024, ten young professionals from Canada and Germany, representing diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise, convened to discuss current and future transatlantic challenges and to participate in the 37th German-Canadian Conference in Berlin. The program aimed to deepen participants' understanding of Canadian and German politics and culture, foster connections between the two countries, and enhance future leaders' engagement in transatlantic networks.

Over the five-day program, the Young Atlantiks engaged in dialogues with various transatlantic stakeholders to tackle key issues on the international policy agenda, including climate change, defense and security cooperation, digitalization, and artificial intelligence. These sessions were complemented by a thoughtfully designed cultural and historical program, which included visits to museums and interactions with civil society and art initiatives. Participants had the opportunity to learn not only from the speakers but also from each other, sharing diverse perspectives and experiences from their respective fields. All discussions adhered to the Chatham House Rules, ensuring open and candid dialogue. Three key takeaways emerged from the Young Atlantiks' discussions in Berlin: the uncertainty of geopolitical changes in the upcoming super-election year, the benefits of generational collaboration across transatlantic allies, and the need for concrete joint projects to strengthen the Canada-Germany bilateral relationship.

A recurring theme in the Young Atlantiks' discussions was the looming uncertainty of geopolitical change with upcoming elections in multiple countries, including the European Union, Mexico, India, and, notably, the United States. The potential impact of a second Trump administration on various policy areas, including environmental, foreign, and trade policy, was a major point of concern. The implications of renewed aggression from China and Russia on the transatlantic relationship were also discussed. Climate change, a set agenda item for multiple sessions, emerged as a cross-cutting issue impacting all sectors. As one conference speaker noted, "climate change is an 'everything' issue," highlighting its intersectional impacts. While Germany and Canada share similar approaches to climate change adaptation and mitigation, there was a strong emphasis on the importance of joint action in supporting the global transition to net-zero, particularly involving actors from the Global South. Participants explored the potential impacts of the EU election on the European Green Deal and ongoing debates in Canada, a resource-based economy. Many speakers underscored how domestic policy areas such as inflation, employment, and immigration are interconnected with the current geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the complexity of foreign policy considerations.

The Young Atlantiks Program not only provided a platform for in-depth discussions on pressing global issues but also fostered valuable connections between emerging leaders from Canada and Germany. Through this initiative, the foundations have been laid for a stronger, more collaborative transatlantic partnership in the years to come.

• - https://www.atlantik-bruecke.org/2024-young-atlantiks-program-report/