Krzysztof Bulski speaks with Dr. Antonios Nestoras, Deputy Executive Director of the European Liberal Forum.
It’s another exciting episode of the EU Bubble Insider, and this time, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Antonios Nestoras, Deputy Executive Director of the European Liberal Forum (ELF). Our discussion ventured into the fascinating intersection of academia and policy, shedding light on the significant role think tanks play in the EU landscape.
Right from the start, Antonios captivated me with his insights into the world of policy-making. He articulated the critical role of entities like ELF in bridging the gap between academic research and the practical realm of policy-making. Antonios emphasized how think tanks like ELF are instrumental in transforming complex policy areas into actionable insights for EU lawmakers.
One of the most intriguing aspects of our conversation was understanding how a think tank influences policy and engages with various stakeholders. Antonios shared ELF’s approach to measuring success in policy influence, including their engagement strategies with policymakers, civil society, and industry representatives. This approach ensures that their research is not only academically robust but also resonates practically in the world of EU policy.
A particular highlight for me was Antonios’ perspective on EU enlargement and the concept of staged integration. He detailed how ELF is advocating for a revised approach to EU enlargement, proposing a model where candidate countries gradually enjoy certain benefits of EU membership. This approach, according to Antonios, is aimed at reinvigorating the enlargement process, making it more inclusive and effective.
Delving deeper, Antonios provided an insider’s view of the dynamics within a political think tank. He described ELF’s environment as a diverse melting pot of liberal ideologies, akin to a mini-parliament. This diversity, as Antonios pointed out, allows for a comprehensive exploration of ideas, significantly enriching the policy development process.
We wrapped up our conversation with Antonios sharing his thoughts on work-life balance. He stressed the importance of prioritizing family and personal life, a principle that he holds dear. It was refreshing to hear his perspective on maintaining a balance, reminding us that there’s more to life than just work.
Join me in this enlightening episode of the EU Bubble Insider, where Antonios Nestoras takes us on a journey through the intricate world of EU policy-making, the influential role of think tanks, and the art of balancing academia and policy. His insights offer a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities within the EU political landscape.
