On May 27, 2025, the Climate Policy Institute, in collaboration with the Gnosis Institute and the OCECCD, hosted the Energy Forum 2025 at the MCC Scruton venue in Budapest. The conference focused on addressing the evolving energy security landscape and sustainability challenges faced by Central and Southeast European countries amidst unprecedented geopolitical shifts.
The forum’s timely relevance was underscored by the ongoing energy crisis, repercussions of the Russia-Ukraine war, and broader conflicts in the Near and Middle East, which have significantly reshaped foreign policy and economic realities in the region. Against this backdrop, the conference aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of emerging energy diversification strategies, new supply route plans, and their potential impact on regional cooperation.
The one-day event was structured around three thematic panels that explored the future prospects of the region in light of global and regional energy challenges. The first panel examined the obstacles and opportunities in advancing the clean energy transition, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil fuels. The second panel focused on the restructuring of international hydrocarbon trade, discussing practical steps required to adapt to shifting market dynamics and geopolitical pressures. The third panel highlighted the role of nuclear energy in the region’s energy mix, exploring how it could contribute to both security and sustainability goals.
Throughout the conference, expert speakers and panelists shared valuable insights, fostering a rich dialogue that engaged participants from various sectors. Audience questions further enriched the discussions, reflecting high interest and expertise among attendees. The collaborative efforts of the organizers and contributors ensured the forum’s success in promoting informed debate and regional energy cooperation.
Energy Forum 2025 thus served as a crucial platform for policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers to align strategies aimed at securing a stable, sustainable energy future for Central and Southeast Europe.
