Can Europe Really Stand on Its Own?

Hosted by NewFrames

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Event Description

🗣️ Panel Discussion: From Dependence to Autonomy: Can Europe Really Stand on Its Own?

This edition of the series will open with a panel discussion followed by the screening of Mr. Nobody against Putin. The panel will explore whether Europe can truly become a security and political actor in its own right at a time when Russia is preparing for a long-term confrontation, the US approach to Moscow is evolving, and global power shifts are accelerating. The film’s central figure, Mr. Nobody —The film, which follows an ordinary individual caught up in the pressures and distortions of contemporary Russia, offers a human, atmospheric point of departure for a broader conversation about Europe’s response to this new geopolitical reality.

🎙️ Speakers :

Ambassador Bill White U.S Ambassador to Belgium

Mārtiņš Staķis is a Member of the European Parliament (Greens/EFA), focusing on defence and security. Former Mayor of Riga, he championed good governance and sustainability. He previously served in the Latvian Parliament and at the Ministry of Defence. Active in Latvia’s National Guard, he brings practical security experience. He advocates for a Europe able to protect itself.

André Wilkens is Director of the European Cultural Foundation and a founding member of the European Council on Foreign Relations. His work focuses on Europe’s political autonomy, democracy, and the role of culture and digital ethics in a changing geopolitical landscape.

Erika Staël von Holstein is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Re-Imagine Europa (RIE). 

Moderator : Elena Sánchez Nicolás is Editor in Chief of TheEUObserver

🎥 Film Screening: Mr. Nobody against Putin (2025)

Synopsis: As Russia launches its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, primary schools across Russia are transformed into recruitment stages for the war. Facing the ethical dilemma of working in a system defined by propaganda and violence, a brave teacher films what's really happening in his own school.

🕒 Evening Agenda:

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• 19:00 – 19:30: Doors opening
• 19:30 – 20:30: Panel discussion & Q&A
• 20:40 - 22:00: Mr. Nobody against Putin (2025) - (90 min )

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About Films & Politics

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Films & Politics is a series by newframes designed to bring social issues to life through cinema, focusing on the challenges of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each monthly event features a film screening followed by a discussion with one or more expert panellists, fostering democratic participation and meaningful dialogue between civil society, industry, and policymakers. 

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Any inquiries? Please reach out to us at claire@newframes.eu