After almost two years of the pandemic, economic recovery in Europe has been volatile. The rebound was faster and stronger than expected, but the recovery is still fragile, with businesses contending with multiple challenges including supply chain disruption, talent shortages, rising inflation as well as new virus strains. Post-COVID-19 rebuilding still provides a unique opening for both the private and public sector to reset economies and business models, establishing the foundations for a more sustainable, resilient and inclusive recovery. A number of bold commitments – including green recovery packages and investment in digital, physical and social infrastructure – have been stepped up to bring stronger economic growth, meet global environmental targets and address structural inequalities. On top of this, the acceleration in the race to net-zero and a fast adaptation to a dynamic, hybrid new world of work have been driving forces in this same direction. 

Governments and businesses are facing a world radically changed by COVID-19 but despite the best of intentions, recoupling economic growth and social and environmental progress in the current uncertain context is not exempt from substantial challenges. How can businesses build resilience, increase competitiveness, and support long-term profitable growth? Is the ambition to reset economies for a more inclusive and sustainable recovery hampered? Is the built- in resilience sufficient to face new crises? Are the initiatives to accelerate digitisation, reskill workers and adapt workplaces and business models succeeding? Are they delivering more inclusive, sustainable and resilient organisations and supply chains? 

This FT Digital Dialogue, organised in partnership with Accenture, discussed the progress made so far for the recovery in Europe and plans for 2022. It addressed how we are advancing towards strengthening resilience in the face of future challenges. Focus was placed on the role of business in delivering long lasting change towards this end.

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