The Institutional and Administrative Capacity Observatory (#CAPIS) is pleased to present its Autumn 2025 seminar programme, a rich ensemble of events exploring the evolving landscape of public policy, democratic governance, and institutional change in Italy, EU and beyond. Under the scientific coordination of Prof. Laura Polverari (University of Padua), the series brings together leading scholars and practitioners to discuss some of today’s most pressing political and administrative challenges.

Across October, November, and December, participants will have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and international perspectives on European institutions, populist governance, regulation, policymaking, and democratic resilience.

The programme opens on 7 October with Prof. Amie Kreppel (University of Florida), who will examine EU institutions in comparative perspective, offering insights into their evolution and distinctiveness within the broader family of political systems.

On 30 October, Professors Sabrina Cavatorto (University of Pisa) and Paola Coletti (University of Bergamo) will focus on populist governments and independent authorities in Italy, discussing the cases of the Data Protection Authority and Consob, and reflecting on the delicate balance between politics and regulatory autonomy.

An highlight of the season is the Second Annual #CAPIS Conference, which will be held on 6 November. Chaired by Prof. Paolo Graziano (University of Padova), the event brings together an outstanding panel of scholars – including Professors Emanuele Massetti (University of Trento), Giorgia Nesti (University of Padova), Laura Polverari (University of Padova), and Sean Kippin (University of Stirling) – to explore public policy and public administrations in challenging times, from the rule of law and minimum income schemes to local government reforms and democratic backsliding. Prof. Ekaterina Domorenok will serve as discussant.

The series continues with a set of thematic seminars. On 18 November, Prof. Sean Kippin will analyse the consequences of Brexit, while Pierluigi Brombo (European Economic and Social Committee) will deliver two seminars on 19 November covering the role of interest groups and civil society in policymaking, and on foresight methodologies to strengthen institutional resilience.

On 20 November, Prof. David Coen (University College London) will explore business lobbying in the EU, offering a deep dive into strategies, actors, and regulatory implications. The December sessions conclude the programme with Prof. John Bachtler (University of Strathclyde) on 4 December, discussing the negotiation of the new Multi-annual Financial Framework and the role of Cohesion Policy in uncertain times, and Andrea Casamenti (Solidar) on 18 December, examining the role of the third sector as a support agent for public administration.

With its blend of academic rigor and real-world relevance, the Autumn 2025 #CAPIS Seminar Series invites students, researchers, public officials, and all those interested in European governance to join a stimulating journey through the complexities shaping today’s institutional environment.

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