Panel Discussion on the Implications of Donald Trump’s Election Victory

This week, our distinguished panel featured Matthew Robinson, the director of the Euro-Gulf Information Centre; Natalie McNelis, a trade lawyer specializing in mergers and acquisitions for MLex; and Gregg Svingen, a senior advisor at Rud Pedersen Public Affairs and spokesperson for Democrats Abroad. Together, they delved into the ramifications of Donald Trump’s unexpected victory in the US elections and its potential impact on transatlantic relations between the EU and the United States.

During his campaign, Trump made headlines with his remarks about the “lovely EU,” asserting that they would need to “pay the price” for not purchasing American goods. Trade expert Natalie McNelis expressed her concerns regarding the looming threat of a trade war, emphasizing that Trump’s preferred term is “tariff.” She stated, “He (Trump) doesn’t seem to grasp the full consequences of imposing tariffs. Such measures will undoubtedly lead to increased prices for consumers in the United States. However, the repercussions will resonate globally, affecting economies and trade dynamics worldwide.”

As we approach COP29, and in light of recent scientific warnings predicting that 2024 may become the hottest year on record, the panel also reflected on the potential adverse effects of a Trump administration on climate change initiatives. Matthew Robinson remarked, “There’s certainly a significant chance that we could see a regression in climate action during another Trump era.”

For a more in-depth exploration of these pressing issues, be sure to watch our segment titled ‘Brussels, My Love?’ featured in the player above.