European Space Conference

The Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI) take part as a scientific partner in the European Space Conference, focused on advancing Europe’s space ambitions. Organised by Business Bridge Europe and Logos Public Affairs, the event bring together Europe’s institutions, member states, national agencies, industry, defence actors, innovators and investors, including over 2,000 participants, 200 high-level speakers and more than 50 institutional and industrial partners. The conference provides an important opportunity for dialogue among policymakers, industry representatives, space agencies, academic experts and international think tanks, with the aim of discussing the future of European space policy and ecosystem in an evolving strategic context.

The 17th edition was held in Brussels at the Square Convention Centre on 28-29 January 2025. Central to the discussions was the need for Europe to strengthen its capabilities in the space sector, foster a competitive and sustainable space ecosystem and consolidate its presence on the international stage. IAI representatives moderated three of the conference’s main panels.

The 18th edition was held in Brussels at the Square Convention Centre on 27-28 January 2026. This conference edition has seen an even stronger presence from ministers and national agencies alongside the EU institutions. Central to the discussions were the 2025 ESA Ministerial Council meeting outcomes, namely the need for Europe to strengthen its capabilities through space and defence initiatives, the negotiations of the 2028 EU Multiannual Financial Framework and its Competitiveness Fund, and the development of the future EU Space Programme and its components. IAI representatives moderated three of the conference’s main panels.