FEPS Annual Autumn Academy 2025

The title of the 2025 editions is “For a Europe of peace, prosperity and progress”. This guiding framework provided both forward-looking perspectives and practical insights. The programme explored the current and emerging challenges facing social democrats in the EU, while creating space for participants and speakers to debate priorities for the future.

Each day was structured around a dedicated sub-theme:

• A resilient Europe in the era of multipolarity
• A transformative Europe delivering quality jobs
• A pluralist Europe of internal and international cooperation

With its blend of high-level expertise, innovative learning formats and a uniquely collaborative atmosphere, FEPS Annual Autumn Academy continues to equip Europe’s next generation of progressive leaders with the tools, knowledge and networks they need to shape the future.

Launched in 2019, the FEPS Annual Autumn Academy has grown into one of the most dynamic and forward-looking political training initiatives in Europe. Each year, it brings together a community of around 50 rising political leaders from across the EU—already elected and among the most promising voices in progressive politics. They are joined by an exceptional roster of speakers, including party leaders, EU commissioners, ministers, members of national parliaments and the European Parliament, academics, civil society experts, representatives of trade unions and student unions, journalists, pollsters, youth spokespersons and many more. 

The success of the Academy lies in its commitment to combining politically relevant content with the latest thought-provoking research, delivered through a highly participatory, interactive and empowering format. Over three intensive days, participants immerse themselves in a rich programme of lectures, debates, workshops, visits, mentorship sessions, masterclasses, trainings and competitions. Each element is carefully designed to make the experience not only intellectually stimulating but also profoundly impactful, inclusive and inspiring.

Organised by FEPS in partnership with the Karl Renner Institut, the Amicus Europae Foundation, Eteron and the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Competence Center.