Competitiveness and Development of EU Countries in the Face of Global Economic, Social and Environmental Challenges

Purpose: The third decade of the twenty-first century brought completely new economic and social challenges for the whole world. The pandemic, armed conflicts, unstable macroeconomic conditions, and disrupted supply chains are just a few examples of contemporary threats. Undoubtedly, an important aspect of these considerations and at the same time the aim of the publication is to attempt an objective assessment of the opportunities and threats for EU countries in this dynamically changing reality. Design/Methodology/Approach: The methodology used in the publication is based on the analysis of literature and statistical sources, the presentation of available international reports on the role and importance of EU countries in the modern world. This topic is expanded by statistical and descriptive analyses of presented economic, social and environmental problems. Findings: These challenges and threats are global in nature, but they also have a significant impact on the development and competitiveness of EU countries. These countries, by implementing a number of very progressive programmes related to sustainable development and environmental protection, incur high transformation costs, thereby putting themselves at risk of a decline in international competitiveness/ Thus, a fundamental question arises about the ideal compromise between the requirements related to sustainable development and the competitive position in the modern world. Practical implications: The reflections contained in the publication have clear practical implications for the future development of economic and social policies for the Community as a whole. Considerations on environmental aspects are also of great importance, which, despite being a global challenge by many countries, are completely ignored. Originality/value: The publication refers to the question of the competitiveness of EU countries and their ability to develop in conditions of strong international competition, which does not always respect the same economic, political and environmental values and standards. Thus, they refer to very topical and potentially important practical analytical research.