In his analysis, the lecturer from the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences argues that both documents adopt a bureaucratic approach, which he believes is detached from the real issues faced by European citizens. While Brussels focuses on political strategies and broad consensus on sustainability, he points out that the population continues to grapple with persistent inflation, a stagnant labour market and an unresolved migration crisis.

Agnese points out that while Letta advocates a stronger single market and Draghi emphasises technological competitiveness in the face of powers like the US and China, in practice their proposals reinforce the status quo. He believes that the EU’s vision as a homogeneous economic bloc ignores structural differences between member countries and global competition.

In his note, Agnese also highlights a crucial omission in the reports: while Europe continues to debate its regulatory framework, its competitors are already taking action. He reminds us that the United States and China have prioritised artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and the semiconductor industry, while the EU remains focused on environmental regulations and state aid.

One of the concerns for Pablo Agnese is the technological gap with other powers. He cites data reflecting the European backwardness in creating large technology companies, linking this to a lack of investment in R&D and excessive regulation. According to estimates, European companies invest €270 billion less in research and development than their American counterparts, casting doubt on Europe’s ability to lead in emerging sectors like artificial intelligence or quantum computing.

Agnese also examines the European approach to the green transition, noting that while Letta views it as an irreversible commitment and Draghi sees it as an economic opportunity, the figures show that the EU is undertaking a greater effort compared to other powers. This, in his view, generates high energy costs and reduces the continent's competitiveness.

Another critical issue, according to the lecturer, is the lack of attention to sensitive topics like immigration, terrorism, and new financial technologies. His analysis suggests these issues are barely addressed in the reports, despite their impact on Europe’s socio-economic reality.  He particularly mentions the absence of references to blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and decentralised finance (DeFi), areas where other powers are advancing quickly.

Lastly, Agnese points out that the consolidation of the European single market, one of Letta's main proposals, faces significant obstacles due to regulatory divergences among member states. He believes that high taxes and bureaucratic barriers hinder the competitiveness of emerging companies and limit the growth of Europe’s tech ecosystem.

In conclusion, the lecturer argues that the reports reflect the tension between two models of Europe: one based on centralisation and bureaucracy, and another focused on economic flexibility and dynamism. In his view, the EU must rethink its strategy, focus on its strengths, and avoid a homogeneous vision that does not address the realities of its citizens, merely aiming for minimal consensus in areas like defence and immigration.

On 27 November, the new Carlemany Institute of European Studies (ICEE) at UIC Barcelona organised a roundtable to analyse the Letta and Draghi reports and the future of Europe after the US elections. Chaired by the Institute's director, Montserrat Nebrera, the event was attended by two leading experts, Josep Lluís Oller, an economist, and Joaquim Coello, a naval engineer.