Welcome to the February issue of our literature review on the new systemic conflict with China. On January 22, 2021 the European Commission published the text of the EU-China Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI) following the agreement “in principle announced” on December 30, 2020. The CAI has unleashed a firestorm of criticism in Europe and among the EU's key partners, directed both at the deal itself and at the timing and political context of the agreement. It is therefore a focus of this review, especially as it has significantly complicated transatlantic cooperation on China and the formulation of the Biden administration’s policy toward Beijing. Another focus is China's expanding authoritarianism, as evidenced by intensified efforts to influence media content around the world or its campaign of transnational repression directed at Chinese living abroad. This review also covers contributions on economic and technological competition, key arenas of competition with China. As usual, I have tried to map the ongoing debate and point out contributions I consider essential readings. Please feel invited to comment on my selection. I look forward to your feedback. Wishing you a stimulating read, I do hope this issue of our literature review will provide useful insights for your work.

What are the prospects for the strategic partnership between Germany and India when it comes to health? The coronavirus pandemic is currently for both partners at the center of their health policy agendas. Regarding the containment of the pandemic and the strengthening of vaccine capacities a partnership between Germany and India seems natural and is favored by both sides. In the medium term, however, differences are likely to increasingly come into focus. India wants to expand the market power of its pharmaceutical industry, why Germany and Europe are worried of too large dependencies on the “largest pharmacy” of the world, argues Parvati Vasanta in the 3. chapter of our policy brief series. (only available in German)

Our 19th NEUE STIMMEN International Singing Competition will take place again this year as planned, but with an approach and schedule that have been adapted to the coronavirus pandemic. Young opera singers have until May 31 to submit their applications, which for the first time will include a video component.

What are the prospects of the strategic partnership between Germany and India? Often, we see that mutual statements about its infinite potential characterize the Indo-German relationship. At the same time, the discussion very often remains merely a theoretical exchange. Where are both partners really on the same page and where are their respective pain points in cooperation in relevant economic and political areas that may prevent a successful partnership? In the first chapter of the upcoming Policy Brief series, Parvati Vasanta takes a closer look at the area of security. (in German)

What are the prospects of the strategic partnership between Germany and India? Often, we see that mutual statements about its infinite potential characterize the Indo-German relationship. At the same time, the discussion very often remains merely a theoretical exchange. Where are both partners really on the same page and where are their respective pain points in cooperation in relevant economic and political areas that may prevent a successful partnership? In the first chapter of the upcoming Policy Brief series, Parvati Vasanta takes a closer look at the area of security. (in German)

Good news from Europe in the midst of the pandemic: Europeans are very willing to adhere to the rules for combatting COVID-19 and to act as one to overcome the crisis. That is the finding from an eupinions study that surveyed 13,000 EU citizens. eupinions is our tool for researching public opinion across Europe. It is operated in partnership with the King Baudouin Foundation.

Now, more than ever, we need to ask ourselves: What visions for the future should guide our lives today? What role should digital innovation play in these visions? How can we ensure that algorithms, artificial intelligence and other technologies foster inclusion, diversity and cohesion? “The New New” fellowship, a six-month stipend offered by the Bertelsmann Stiftung and Superrr Lab, provides individuals and teams from across Europe the opportunity to explore what visionary, just and inclusive digital futures might look like. Apply now (until January 6^th 2021)!

Since its founding in 1977, the Bertelsmann Stiftung has devoted considerable effort to facilitating German-Israeli relations. This long-term cooperation was built on the close friendship cultivated between Liz and Reinhard Mohn with then-Mayor of Jerusalem, the legendary Teddy Kollek.

The deployment of automated decision-making (ADM) and AI-based systems in Europe has vastly increased over the last two years. Used by public authorities and private companies alike, they affect the lives of millions of citizens. But transparency, oversight and competence are still lacking. There is an urgent need for policy makers at EU and member state level to address this gap, otherwise they risk to jeopardize the potential benefits of such systems. This is the result of the most comprehensive research on the issue conducted in Europe so far, AlgorithmWatch and we compiled for the 2020 edition of the Automating Society report.

As part of a new online format, rising opera singers from all over the world will receive invaluable support helping them on the way to successful careers. From 26 to 30 October, they will work with high-profile opera experts, both individually and in groups, to further develop their skills. Communal activities will play an important role and build on NEUE STIMMEN’s network ethos, even in the digital environment.