Strengthening European Design Policy: Insights from BEDA Meetings in Brussels

In January, our Design Policy & International Projects Manager, Piotr Swiatek, represented PDR in Brussels as part of BEDA’s in person Board meeting and key advocacy engagements with the European Commission. These meetings reinforced the growing strategic importance of design at EU level and highlighted opportunities to strengthen collaboration between policymakers, industry, and research.

On 22 January, Piotr—alongside BEDA Vice President Mark Illi—took part in discussions with DG EAC, the Directorate General now responsible for the design sector and creative industries. Their conversation centred on insights from the Design Policy Mapping study and how design can be further recognised and supported within the changing European policy landscape.

The Brussels visit also included additional advocacy meetings with the Joint Research Centre’s Policy Lab, DG EMPL, and EUIPO, further strengthening links between design and the wider innovation, employment, and intellectual property agenda across the Commission.

As part of the Board meeting, Piotr—serving as BEDA Treasurer—reported on BEDA’s 2025 financial performance and presented the proposed budget for 2026. His update reflected increasing project activity and sustained investment in advocacy and member services.

This period also marks a transition: Piotr will conclude his term as Treasurer at the BEDA General Assembly on 7 May 2026 in Munich, following a chapter of strengthened financial governance and strategic development for the organisation.

At PDR, we remain committed to contributing to a resilient and forward-looking European design landscape. Through Piotr’s active involvement in BEDA and our wider research and policy work, we continue to champion the role of design in shaping Europe’s future.

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