Europe finds itself at a moment of profound uncertainty. Geopolitical tension, climate urgency, technological competition, and social transformation converge, demanding that the continent confront both its vulnerabilities and its potential. When Ursula von der Leyen took the stage for her 2025 State of the Union, she captured this tension with a single, striking phrase: “Europe is in a fight.” It was a stark reminder that the continent’s choices — in policy, technology, and diplomacy — will reverberate far beyond its borders.

This past week, I had the pleasure of facilitating a 3-day peer learning workshop in Hanoi, bringing together integrity practitioners working across the climate finance landscape. Co-hosted by the Green Climate Fund’s Independent Integrity Unit (IIU) and GIZ, the workshop created something all too rare in integrity and compliance work: time and space for reflection, exchange, and real human connection. As climate action accelerates, so does the scale and complexity of climate finance. But with rising investment comes growing responsibility—and increased risk. Upholding transparency and integrity in the use of climate funds is not just a technical exercise—it’s a critical part of protecting the planet and the communities most affected by climate change.

The reelection of Donald Trump was not unexpected, but for many, it represented a grim confirmation of the political trajectory of the United States. While his return to power may not have shocked the world, it has nonetheless forced European policymakers and institutions to grapple with the stark reality of a less cooperative, more unilateral United States. This moment was long foreseen but fervently hoped against, and now the European Union faces the difficult task of recalibrating its strategies to deal with a second term of Trump’s “America First” doctrine.

This year’s World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos arrives at a pivotal moment. The global community is grappling with interlocking crises: escalating geopolitical tensions, worsening climate impacts, and growing socio-economic inequalities. Against this backdrop, Davos 2025 is not just another annual gathering of policymakers, business leaders, and civil society; it’s a crucible where urgent global challenges demand transformative solutions.

The outcomes of COP29 have left many grappling with a mix of frustration and urgency. While incremental progress was achieved, it’s far from the scale and speed needed to address the mounting climate crisis. For many, especially in the Global South, the agreements reached feel like yet another chapter in the story of too little, too late. However, rather than dwelling on what wasn’t accomplished, we must channel this moment into meaningful, transformative action that bridges the divide between the Global North and South. The European Union, grassroots organizations, and the research community all have critical roles to play in turning this scenario into one of shared opportunity and resilience.

It’s Halloween—the time of year when we lean into the spooky, the shadows, and the unknown. But nothing conjured from fiction quite measures up to the real-world frights haunting today’s headlines. From political ghosts re-emerging in the U.S. to escalating conflict in the Middle East, and the high-stakes negotiations nearing conclusion at COP16 in Cali, Colombia, there’s plenty to keep us on edge. With promises emerging for nature restoration and food security, the world is looking at a critical opportunity for action. But without real implementation, these pledges may haunt us as empty promises.

In the global fight against climate change, climate finance is crucial in enabling countries and communities to adapt to and mitigate its impacts. However, the sheer scale of these financial flows, combined with the urgency to act, brings significant risks, such as fraud, corruption, and mismanagement. Ensuring integrity in climate finance is not just a matter of preventing misconduct; it is essential for ensuring that these critical resources are used effectively and transparently, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As the EU bubble in Brussels roars back to life after the summer break, policymakers, lobbyists, NGOs, and industry representatives are gearing up for a busy and potentially transformative season. This autumn, the political landscape will be critical for shaping Europe’s future, especially when it comes to sustainability. The European Union has long prided itself on its leadership in climate action and environmental policies, but recent developments—including controversial reforms to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)—are putting that reputation to the test.

As Hungary takes the helm of the Council of the European Union, all eyes are on its leadership during this pivotal six-month term. This presidency, marked by the slogan "Make Europe Great Again," arrives amid heightened scrutiny and mixed reactions. Hungary’s contentious domestic policies and complex relationship with EU institutions raise questions about its commitment to advancing the EU's environmental and sustainable development agenda, and its ability to act as an honest broker - core competency of the Presidency. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for significant progress.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set a global agenda for tackling pressing challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change by 2030. For the European Union (EU), the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) post-2027 represents a critical opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen its commitment to the SDGs through strategic development aid and policies that support sustainable development globally. The upcoming political mandate following the 2024 elections will play a pivotal role in shaping this MFF, influencing how resources are allocated and how policies are implemented to support sustainable development both within and beyond its borders.

Motherhood is a timeless emblem of nurturing, resilience, and strength. As we celebrate Mother's Day, it's not just about honoring the women who brought us into this world, but recognizing the pivotal role they play in shaping societies and driving progress. At MNPQ Consulting, we understand that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requires the active involvement of all stakeholders, with a particular emphasis on women and mothers. Through our three focus areas – policy and advocacy, communications and stakeholder engagement, and partnerships and fundraising – we are committed to empowering mothers as key stakeholders in the journey towards a sustainable future.