Schedule

Note: Event times and speaker lineups are subject to change

The Future Now – Rethinking Mobility

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

AI is disrupting the way we move, in the air and on the roads. In the US, disruptive technologies for mobility originate from the non-mobility industry and pioneering startups. The traditional industry is failing to keep up in innovative speed. In contrast, in Germany, the established industry leads the way in developing new forms of mobility, […]

Basel, Berlin, Boston – How to Foster Innovation in Biotech?

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

This panel will examine the factors contributing to the disparity in pharmaceutical innovation between the USA and Europe, as well as the factors facilitating the construction of excellence clusters in biomedical research. This includes investigating investment climates, regulatory frameworks, and cultural attitudes toward entrepreneurship and risk. The discussion will also explore strategic actions necessary to […]

Between a Rock and a Hard Place: German / EU Digital Sovereignty After US Elections

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

As data becomes the new oil of the 21st century, Europe and the United States face crucial decisions about digital independence and technological self-determination. This panel explores how both sides of the Atlantic can maintain digital sovereignty while preserving their strategic partnership. Leading experts from government, industry, and academia will discuss critical questions: How can […]

Remembrance and Reflections: Navigating Collective Memory in Germany and the U.S.

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Germany and the USA have distinct approaches to Remembrance, influenced by their histories. Germany’s remembrance is centered on the Holocaust and Nazi crimes, promoting collective responsibility and counteracting extremism, while the U.S. focuses on events such as the Civil War and civil rights movements, often highlighting progress and patriotism. In the panel “”Remembering the Past […]

Start Me Up: Does Germany Fail to Spark the Next Tech Revolution?

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

This panel discusses the differences between the tech ecosystems of Germany and the US, exploring the dynamics that drive innovation in each. With a focus on key areas like funding, entrepreneurship, regulation, and culture, this discussion will offer insights into the factors shaping success—or hindering growth—in both nations. From venture capital access and startup culture […]

The Turning of the Tides: Interpreting the Zeitenwende

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

As Germany grapples with its "Zeitenwende," the seismic shift in its defense policy, the pressure is on. Is Germany ready to step up as a major player in transatlantic security, or will institutional paralysis hold it back? This panel sparks a fierce debate on defense spending, military modernization, and U.S. expectations. Can Germany overcome its […]

Workshop: Masterclass Comedy and Communications

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

Join Enissa Amani for her workshop on human communication and comedy. Explore how humor can facilitate public speaking and help you capture the audience. Learn to enhance your communication skills and stage presence to successfully convey the message you truly care about.

Discussion: On the Current Situation in Israel and Gaza

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

In this session, the speaker will start with some thoughts on the unfolding situation in Israel/Gaza, and on what has been happening on the Harvard campus and elsewhere. The remainder is meant to be a discussion and how it has affected people on our campus and beyond. Please see the Statement on the Current Situation […]

Panel: Born in Germany, raised in the US: Do all unicorns gallop into the Valley?

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

The panel discussion is designed to cater to startup founders, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, industry experts, and professionals interested in the dynamics of cross-border startup scaling. The event welcomes participants from both Germany and the United States, fostering cross-cultural exchange and networking opportunities. With Faruk Tuncer, Maurice Lee, Katharina Jünger, Eva-Maria Olbers, and Alexander Schmitt

Panel: Geopolitical Paradigms – how do innovations shape today’s security landscape?

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

A leading voice in international security and conflict studies, an expert on the evolving landscape of European defense, and a top specialist in the realms of cyber threats and intelligence operations. Together, they will provide an in-depth analysis of the present global security challenges, explore the interplay of conventional and unconventional threats, and delve into […]

Fireside Chat: Making Industrial Policy Work for Decarbonization

Harvard Kennedy School | Wexner W-436 79 John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge, MA, United States

This event will explore the rise of green industrial policy and its potential in fostering sustainable economic growth while addressing climatic challenges. With Franziska Brantner and Jonas Meckling