On 29 January, the FEPS’ traditional New Year Reception took place. At this event, FEPS launched a new edition of the Progressive Yearbook and unveiled FEPS Progressive Person of the Year, Mariana Mazzucato.
The Progressive Yearbook 2025-2026
The Progressive Yearbook (PYB) was published for the first time in 2019-20, and is an important innovation, especially as part of the Progressive Publication family. This event was dedicated to the launch of the seventh edition of the Progressive Yearbook.
With the mission of bringing forward analyses of the key political developments of the year, the Progressive Yearbook focuses on transversal European issues that have left a mark on 2025. It brings insightful future-looking analysis and symbolises FEPS’ readiness to put these lessons into perspective.
Progressive Person of the Year
In 2026, we were honoured to award Mariana Mazzucato as the Progressive Person of the Year, who joined the event remotely.
Mariana Mazzucato, a Professor at University College London and Founding Director of the UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, stands out among contemporary economists as a voice of clarity and reason. A tremendously inspirational writer and speaker, she has consistently challenged entrenched myths that pit the public and private sectors against each other. In the intellectual desert left by the neoliberal era, she has been a ray of hope, guiding young academics and older policymakers on how to avoid pitfalls and find forward-looking solutions to complex governance problems.
The New Year Reception also marked the handover of the presidency from Maria João Rodrigues to Nicolas Schmit. FEPS said goodbye to Maria João Rodrigues, who has officially stepped down as FEPS President. The role is now officially taken up by former Commissioner for Social Rights and Jobs, Nicolas Schmit.
For more information regarding this event, please do not hesitate to contact Alice Nicaise, Project and Events Officer (alice.nicaise@feps-europe.eu).
