Europe is in the midst of the most significant crisis of the post-Cold War period, one which will intrigue and occupy scholars for years to come.  We are seeing the first genuine challenge to the ideal of a united Europe and with it the revival of seemingly settled questions about democracy, nationalism, the future of economic development and the nature of the European social contract.  We are witnessing terrible budgetary contractions and dislocations which will continue to reduce research funding and undermine higher education for years to come.

Thus, the current crisis challenges not only European governments and citizens, but also European Studies scholars and policy specialists like you and me.  It challenges us by underscoring the practical importance of our work, while simultaneously threatening the resources we need to do that work.

Fortunately, the Council for European Studies (CES) is working hard to help meet and overcome these challenges.  Thanks to the unflagging support of CES members and friends like you, the Council has risen to the moment by greatly expanding its fellowships, awards, and other programming.  We have established a new conference travel grants program, created five new research networks, and will shortly award our first-ever Best First Article Prize.  We have begun hosting conferences in Europe as well as North America to encourage greater trans-Atlantic collaboration, and we are engaged in an ongoing effort to modernize our web resources in ways that strengthen community and disseminate information to a wider audience. 

And more initiatives are coming.  Thanks to the extraordinary dedication of the CES staff, Executive Committee and our many volunteers, the Council is working to further increase funding for scholars at all levels and to provide ever more support for professional development, networking, knowledge sharing, and knowledge mobilization.

But to do this the Council needs your help.  We need you to show that you recognize the importance of sustaining the academic study of Europe and an informed public sphere.   We need you to show your support for the many brilliant young scholars who benefit from CES fellowships and grants in these challenging times — times when a good job and sufficient funding are ever harder to find.

So as you plan your charitable contributions this year, please remember to give to the Council for European Studies. 

John Bowen, Chair Council for European Studies