Trieste to host South-East Europe Observatory

TRIESTE – The South-East Europe Observatory has chosen Trieste as its operational base. After its first presentation in Rome, the project was introduced in the Prefecture’s Salone di Rappresentanza, with the aim of strengthening political and cultural dialogue across the Balkans and supporting the region’s EU accession path. The initiative is the result of a partnership between the Fondazione Luigi Einaudi and MIB Trieste School of Management, with the support of Open Society Foundations and Generali. The headquarters will be in Trieste, described as both a symbolic and operational location given its historic role as a bridge between Italy, Central Europe and the Balkans. The presentation was attended by the Prefect of Trieste and Government Commissioner for the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, Giuseppe Petronzi. Key speakers included Andrea Cangini, Secretary General of the Einaudi Foundation and Director of the Observatory, who stressed the need to consolidate the European project in an area exposed to geopolitical tensions and external influence.

The reference was to Balkan countries still outside the European Union and the risk of instability in a complex international phase. The project will include analysis and research activities, expert roundtables and a strong investment in training. It will start with “Liberal Dialogues”, a cycle of meetings and lectures focused on liberal thought, the market economy, individual rights, media freedom and the European integration process. Events will initially take place in South-East European capitals, with the aim of gradually expanding the programme. The first session is scheduled for 10 March in Trieste, at MIB’s premises, with a focus on the roots of liberal thought and the contribution of the Einaudian tradition to the European project. Further stops are planned in Ljubljana, Belgrade, Podgorica and Tirana between March and May. MIB will contribute with training initiatives aimed at young people from Balkan countries, including Summer Schools and executive programmes.

Vladimir Nanut, the business school’s founder and CEO, recalled MIB’s vocation to serve as a hinge between Italy and Central-Eastern Europe since its establishment in 1988. Giuseppe Benedetto, President of the Einaudi Foundation, described the Observatory as a strategic choice for the EU’s security and stability, underlining the importance of working with the younger generations. Trieste’s Mayor, Roberto Dipiazza, reiterated the city’s role as a venue for European dialogue. Barbara Fabro, Senior Executive Officer at the CEI (Central European Initiative), headquartered in Trieste, also spoke, highlighting the potential for synergies on regional cooperation and youth policy. Starting in 2026, the Observatory will organise an annual international event in Trieste dedicated to enlargement and the future of the European Union. The stated goal is to combine research, training and institutional dialogue to strengthen the European perspective of South-East European countries.