At the heart of the Border Focal Point Network's forthcoming Breakfast Debate is an array of expert panellists, each contributing their unique perspective to the discussion on 'How to further integrate labour markets across borders'. We're delighted to introduce you to one such esteemed panelist, Mr. Olivier Baudelet, whose extensive career at the European Commission has equipped him with a nuanced understanding of cross-border cooperation and regional integration.

Mr. Baudelet's journey at the European Commission spans over two decades, comprising experience across three Directorates-General and seven units. Prior to joining the Commission, Olivier honed his skills in an audit firm, providing services in both London and Paris for five years.

Mr. Baudelet embarked on his European Commission journey as an auditor in DG AGRI, later shifting to DG REGIO (Regional and Urban Policy). He swiftly became a programme manager responsible for regional programmes for innovative actions and Interreg programmes. In this role, Olivier successfully coordinated two macro-regional strategies: the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region and the one for the Danube Region.

His policy expertise was further amplified during his time at the policy unit of DG MARE (Maritime Affairs and Fisheries), where he played a key role in the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy. Back in DG REGIO, he championed urban policy, specifically leading the Urban Agenda for the EU and the Urban Innovative Actions.

Currently, Olivier devotes his expertise to cross-border cooperation, dealing with Interreg programmes and cross-border policy. As a French and German citizen, Olivier's international experience is grounded in a deep understanding of the European landscape. His background in Political Sciences from Sciences-Po in Paris, along with International Economics from the Institut für Weltwirtschaft in Kiel, adds a robust foundation to his policy and programme work.

We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Olivier Baudelet to the 12th Beyond Borders: Breakfast Debate on 13 July 2023. His wealth of knowledge and experience promises an insightful contribution to the dialogue on labour market integration in cross-border regions. Join us to participate in this engaging discussion and learn from Olivier's broad expertise.

Make sure to mark your calendars and register to be join the debate.

Date: 13 July 2023

Time: 10:00 to 11:00 CET

Topic: 'How to further integrate labour markets across borders'

Register here

If you have any questions or would like to contribute to the debate, you can use the ‘Have your say’ tab on Futurium.