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Reversing the Decline in European Compet...

Murray, Meghan, Ro...

Case

Reversing the Decline in European Competitiveness

Murray, Meghan; Rossolini, Marco

GEM-0249 | Published September 16, 2025 | 15 Pages Case

Collection: Darden School of Business

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Learning Objectives

In September 2024, fictional protagonist Julien Bernard, member of the European Parliament (EP) for France, has read a report released by the European Central Bank (ECB) about the sharp decline in the European Union’s competitiveness in recent decades. Bernard, who cares intensely about the European Union’s economic success, agrees with the report and announces that he’ll be making an appearance on the BBC show HARDtalk to express his views. He is determined to use the program as a platform to persuade the public to act quickly and decisively. Mario Draghi, economist, former president of the ECB, and former prime minister of Italy, plays a starring role in this case. Draghi is credited with navigating the 2008 financial crisis and with being a powerful technocrat whose reputation was strong throughout the European Union. This case is appropriate for graduate-level business students in courses focusing on financial communication, economics, and public statements. It is designed to last approximately 80 minutes and can be taught in person or virtually.

1. Increase knowledge about the impact technocrats have on business. 2. Understand the basics of the Western European economy. 3. Prepare for media interviews.