Looking back – looking forward: a Christmas message from Orgalime

The successful conclusion of key Clean Energy files has laid the groundwork for the EU to lead the way in the global energy transition, providing new opportunities for the companies delivering the solutions to make it happen. It was full steam ahead for the digital agenda, too. A political agreement on the Cybersecurity Act was reached in December, while dialogue on a European approach to AI advanced through forums such as the Commission’s High-Level Expert Group – where Orgalime is engaged as the voice of the sectors leading the way in industrial AI.

We were glad to see the Single Market back in the spotlight this year, as policymakers focused on shaping draft legislation to improve compliance and enforcement. Here, we have been active in calling for a more effective and efficient market surveillance framework to create a level playing field for all. Moreover, our industries have continued flying the flag for free trade in an increasingly unpredictable environment. And we have been unwavering in our mission to reinforce the role of industrial R&I in the future Horizon Europe research programme.

Through our work on these issues and many more besides – not least the active contribution of our President Tomas Hedenborg to the Commission’s High-Level Industry 2030 Roundtable – Orgalime has been front and centre of the political debates in 2018 that will shape our industries’ continued growth and global leadership for years to come. It’s been a whirlwind twelve months within our organisation, too, as we evaluate the rapidly changing EU environment and make sure we are ready to master the challenges that lie ahead.

2019 will be a decisive year for the future of the EU, with European Parliament elections and the appointment of a new Commission coming at a time of unprecedented challenges to the European project. For Orgalime and the technology industries we represent, EU-level collaboration is the only way to succeed in a globalised world. So as elections approach, we will continue making the case for a Europe that works together to embrace innovation – and for a future EU framework that enables technology companies to deliver the economic growth and solutions to societal challenges that will improve quality of life for all Europeans.

All signs point to an exciting year ahead. On behalf of the whole Orgalime team I warmly wish you a happy and peaceful Christmas break – here’s to a productive and successful 2019!

Best regards,

Malte Lohan, Orgalime Director General