Europe's Economic Future: Aspirations and Realities

The present work is the first volume in a series devoted to an evolving Europe; it is the expression of a political will, expressed by Strasbourg's Robert Schuman University (and implemented by one of its components, the center for research (CESAG) of the IECS - Strasbourg), whose aim is to observe and analyze European realities, not based on idealized models of operation or on abstract patterns, but rather on observations made in the field, close to the action and to the life of the European citizen, as well as to that of the corporate world. In this light the IECS has decided to invite each year twelve personalities with differing competencies, cultures and nationalities. Strasbourg is one of the capitals of a multiform and multipolar de facto Europe; it is also at the center of leading scientific networks. In this light, the present publication is especially interesting and original: it is the reflection, not of the ideas of a few specialists integrated into the system of the European Community, but of observers and researchers in close contact with everyday reality, a reality marked, doubtless, by severe constraints, but at the same time suggesting an escape towards a stimulating vision of the future. Aspirations and realities are in perpetual conflict; it is important that the former not be crushed by the latter. The testimonies presented herewith are, first of all, the reflection of the diversity to be managed differently depending on country, sector of activity and managerial function.