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Knowledge4Policy
KNOWLEDGE FOR POLICY

Competence Centre on Foresight

We foster a strategic, future-oriented and anticipatory culture in the EU policymaking process.

Topic / Tool | Last updated: 05 Jun 2024

The Megatrends Hub

Megatrends are long-term driving forces that are observable now and will most likely have significant influence on the future.

Brief me

Here you will find:

  • Curated information structured around 14 Global Megatrends  relevant for the future of Europe.
  • Knowledge to help you understand what the megatrends mean for a specific issue. 
  • Macro- and micro-trends, developments and forecasts, potential implications and foresight-related resources.
  • Engagement tool to explore how they can affect your policy field or topic.

Megatrends are defined as long-term driving forces that are observable now and will most likely have a global impact. They can help you to identify probable and preferable futures. Use them to reflect on the future in a systemic way! 

What are megatrends and how to use them?
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Explore further

Accelerating technological change and hyperconnectivity

There is a growing impact of technology and digital connectivity on how we live, from how we socialize and work, to production and governance.

Aggravating resource scarcity

Demand for water, food, energy, land and minerals is rising substantially, making natural resources increasingly scarce and more expensive.

Changing nature of work

New generations entering the workforce and older generations working longer are changing employment, career models, and organisational structures.

Changing security paradigm

The diversification of threats, and the people behind them, are generating new challenges for the defence and security communities, and to society as a whole.

Climate change and environmental degradation

Continued unabated, anthropogenic pollution and greenhouse gas emissions will further increase changing climate patterns.

Continuing urbanisation

People in search of better opportunities - such as jobs, services and education - have been moving from rural, to urban areas across the world, and this accelerating trend…

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