Corvinus University Concludes Horizon Europe ROBUST Project with Final Conference in Brussels
Corvinus University of Budapest has played a key role in the Horizon Europe research project ROBUST (Robust Crisis Governance in Turbulent Times: Mindset, Evidence, Strategies), which concluded with a final conference held on February 3, 2026, in Brussels. The event brought together policymakers, researchers, and civil society representatives to discuss how governance systems can operate effectively under sustained turbulence and overlapping crises.
The project consortium included nine European universities: Roskilde University (Denmark), Utrecht University (Netherlands), University of Turin (Italy), University of Antwerp (Belgium), Tallinn University of Technology (Estonia), Corvinus University of Budapest (Hungary), Masaryk University – Faculty of Economics and Administration (Czech Republic), Nord University (Norway), and the University of Zaragoza (Spain).
Corvinus University’s Contribution to European Crisis Governance Research
Corvinus University was represented at the Brussels conference by Prof. György Hajnal, Principal Investigator and Head of the Department of Public Policy, and Dr. Gábor Tamás Molnár, Assistant Professor and member of the research team. Prof. Hajnal delivered the concluding synthesis of the conference, integrating the project’s analytical insights with reflections emerging from stakeholder discussions.
The research team conducted comparative analysis across three crisis domains and nine European countries, examining robust governance strategies and their enabling conditions. The empirical foundation included more than 50 in-depth case studies and over 250 semi-structured interviews with policymakers and practitioners.
Framework for Robust Governance
The ROBUST project developed a comprehensive framework of robust governance based on three enabling dimensions:
- Multi-level governance approaches
- Hybrid governance strategies
- Societal intelligence mechanisms
- Cross-national comparative analysis of coordination, preparedness, and institutional adaptation
The findings demonstrate that robustness is a dynamic institutional capacity rooted in coordination, learning, and democratic resilience. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners dealing with complex crisis situations.
Policy Impact and Continuing Research
ROBUST has published five concise policy briefs presenting the project’s key insights and recommendations in an accessible format. These briefs are available to policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders interested in crisis governance strategies.
The project’s LinkedIn Learning Hub continues to facilitate discussions and knowledge sharing among professionals working in crisis governance and public administration. This ongoing engagement ensures that the research findings continue to inform policy development and implementation across Europe.
Implications for Public Policy and Administration
The ROBUST project’s findings have significant implications for how governments and public institutions approach crisis management. The research highlights the importance of:
- Developing adaptive governance frameworks that can respond to multiple, simultaneous crises
- Building institutional capacity for learning and coordination across different levels of government
- Incorporating societal intelligence into decision-making processes
- Maintaining democratic principles while ensuring effective crisis response
These insights are particularly relevant for public administration professionals, policymakers, and researchers working on crisis management, emergency response, and governance reform.
Corvinus University’s Research Excellence
This project demonstrates Corvinus University’s commitment to addressing critical challenges facing European societies. The university’s Department of Public Policy continues to contribute to important research on governance, crisis management, and public administration, positioning itself as a key player in European research networks.
For those interested in pursuing research or studies in public policy, crisis governance, or related fields, Corvinus University offers various programs and opportunities for engagement with cutting-edge research projects like ROBUST.
Learn more about Corvinus University’s research activities and public policy programs by visiting their official website or contacting the Department of Public Policy directly.
Explore Corvinus University’s Public Policy Programs: Discover how you can contribute to research on crisis governance and public administration through Corvinus University’s academic offerings.
Access ROBUST Project Resources: Review the policy briefs and research findings from the ROBUST project to understand the latest insights on crisis governance strategies.
Join the Professional Network: Connect with researchers and practitioners working on crisis governance through the ROBUST LinkedIn Learning Hub.
The conclusion of the ROBUST project marks an important milestone in European research on crisis governance, with Corvinus University playing a central role in advancing our understanding of how institutions can remain robust in the face of multiple, overlapping crises.
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