In December 2025, a meeting dedicated to the future of Europe’s research and innovation (R&I) system in the context of demographic challenges took place in Brussels, at the European Commission’s DG RTD (Directorate-General for Research and Innovation).

Representatives of 4CF The Futures Literacy Company — Michał Nadziak and Katarzyna Figiel — presented the conclusions of the foresight report “The Demographic Turn. Actions needed for research, innovation and policy in Europe”. Download the report!

The presentation focused on two main pillars of the project:

2050 Scenarios
4CF experts discussed four alternative pathways for the evolution of the R&I system — from a scenario dominated by large corporations (Corporate Ascendancy), through geopolitical fragmentation (Splinters & Stratification), to a model of resilient, networked ecosystems (Hybrid Hubs).

Strategic Recommendations
The concept of four “Mandates” (Protection, Adaptation, Cohesion, and Trust) was presented as a systemic response to a shrinking talent base and fiscal pressure in the EU.

The talk served as an introduction to a panel discussion with experts and practitioners from the sector. The debate confirmed that, in light of demographic projections, Europe faces the need for a fundamental redesign of its innovation model. It was noted that productivity growth and the automation of research are no longer optional, but a necessary condition for maintaining the EU’s competitiveness and its social model.

The report “Demographic Change: What implications and opportunities for Europe’s R&I system?” was produced under the Foresight on Demand project with the participation of the following partners: Technopolis Consulting Group Belgium SPRL, 4CF SP ZOO (4CF), ARCTIK – Communication for Sustainability, and AIT Austrian Institute of Technology.