ECIPE
The European Centre for International Political Economy (ECIPE) is an independent, non-profit think tank based in Brussels that focuses on international economic policy, trade, and regulation. Founded in 2006 by economists Fredrik Erixon and Razeen Sally, ECIPE contributes to European and international policy debates through a network of resident and non-resident scholars.
Vision and Mission
ECIPE works in the spirit of the open society – a society that embraces the traditions and principles of free trade and economic freedom. The organisation's vision is a world of universal prosperity, peace, security, and individual freedom, fostered by the progressive reduction of barriers to the movement of goods, services, capital, people, and data across borders.
In a global environment where trade liberalisation has slowed, and protectionist and nationalist arguments have gained influence, the need for independent, fact-based analysis has become more pressing. ECIPE responds to this challenge by examining current policies critically and contributing rigorous, evidence-driven perspectives to public debate. As a research‑based think tank, ECIPE's mission is to provide decision‑makers and observers with sound economic and political analysis, contributing to the European debate with informed perspectives on the international economy. It was created to address a clear gap by bringing together insights from economics, politics and law, and applying them directly to real‑world policy‑making.
Organisation
Governance
The organisation is overseen by a Board of Trustees responsible for strategic direction and financial oversight. ECIPE is also supported by an Advisory Board composed of academics and practitioners, including former senior officials from national governments and international organisations. Over 40 individuals are associated with ECIPE through its advisory board and fellowship network.
Funding
ECIPE is funded through voluntary contributions from private foundations and corporations. Its base funding is provided by the Free Enterprise Foundation in Sweden. The organisation does not seek or accept funding from the European Union or other public authorities.
Operations
ECIPE has a Brussels-based secretariat and employs highly qualified scholars who conduct economic research and political analysis. The think tank has a network of non-residential Associates and Senior Fellows and offers a platform for other centres and institutes to present their research in Brussels.
Work
ECIPE conducts policy research and publishes papers, briefs, and books. It organises seminars, conferences and roundtables. In addition to its research activities, ECIPE produces the Global Economy Podcast series, commentary and explainer videos available on YouTube, and maintains an Insights section featuring analysis of current policy developments.
Research Areas
ECIPE’s research agenda is organised around five thematic areas:
- EU Single Market, Institutions, and Governance – examining the regulatory and institutional foundations of European integration.
- Innovation, IP, and Human Capital – exploring the drivers of productivity, technological leadership, and skills development.
- Data, AI, and Emerging Technologies – assessing the economic and policy implications of digital transformation.
- Trade, Globalisation, and Security – analysing Europe’s external competitiveness in an increasingly fragmented world.
- Industrial and Competitiveness Policy – focusing on strategic sectors and the conditions for sustainable industrial growth.
References
External links
Category:2006 establishments in Belgium Category:European integration think tanks Category:Think tanks established in 2006 Category:Think tanks based in Belgium Category:Think tanks based in Europe
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