Opinion pieces
Itinera takes part in the public debate by publishing incisive opinion pieces. These opinions and columns reflect the views of Itinera’s fellows on current affairs and the issues that occupy society.
A region must be empowered to enact what the rest of the world does
In a federal state, it is not acceptable that a region would be prevented from implementing a policy which is a general practice in peer countries. The rest of the world must inspire us in our policy choices.
Where is the Chinese danger for our export economy?
Marc De Vos warns for increasing nationalism and protectionism in China. The rise of Chinese state capitalism can become a Trojan horse for the West. An assertive Western trade policy, built upon a trans-Atlantic understanding, is essential.
The Great Recession’s real labour market legacy
Marc De Vos offers perspectives on the differing labour market performances among countries during the Great Recession. The main cause is economics, not labour market policies.
Why do we persist to underinvest in energy R&D?
Yes, we need better renewable energy technologies. Yes, free markets fail to provide appropriate incentives for radical energy R&D-projects. So yes, governments stepped in and created several incentive schemes.
A stable euro requires more economic potential
Marc De Vos argues that the real euro-crisis is not today’s fiscal profligacy, but tomorrow’s economic potential.
Bank taxes are no substitute for financial reform
Marc De Vos warns for a “tobacco scenario” for the financial sector, with taxes as an alternative for financial reregulation. Taxing bank profits merely addresses a symptom, while leaving the underlying problem unaddressed.
