This year’s edition of the Euromed Young Researchers Forum focused on “Navigating Between Climate Action and Energy Security: A Shared Agenda for the EU and the EU’s Southern Neighbourhood.” The challenge of balancing energy security and climate change has become increasingly acute in recent years.

Energy demand is rising, and geopolitical shifts add urgency to securing energy sources. The current dominant energy source, burning fossil fuels, comes at the expense of fighting climate change. This necessitates the search for alternatives. Policymakers are grappling with how to transition to cleaner energy and boost efficiency without jeopardizing energy security. Renewables like wind and solar power are promising, but require hefty upfront investments in infrastructure and technology, which adds a layer of complexity to the challenge.

Finding a balance between securing energy and addressing climate change is a difficult task that has a great impact globally, including the EU and the EU’s Southern Neighbourhood countries. These regions face similar struggles, and bilateral cooperation can offer a promising solution, promoting sustainable and resilient energy systems.

The 7th Euromed Young Researchers Forum aimed to spark a conversation among young researchers, policymakers, and experts on climate action and energy security. By reflecting on the outcomes of COP28 and identifying areas for collaboration, the forum sought to inspire further action by governments, civil society, and the private sector to ultimately foster a common agenda for the EU and the MENA region to tackle this complex challenge.