European security policy is undergoing fundamental change. The transatlantic partnership, once the cornerstone of European security, is coming under increasing pressure due to changes in US foreign policy. At the same time, Russia and China increasingly pose a threat to Europe's security and economic model. These developments are forcing Europe to urgently examine its own role and its ability to defend peace, freedom and prosperity on the continent. In addition, extremist and populist parties are gaining influence in more and more EU countries. They are jeopardising European unity - and thus the internal stability of the Union. The increasing pressure from outside and within raises the question of how resilient European cohesion really is.
During the panel discussion, experts from politics, the military and academia will analyse and discuss the future of Europe's security policy:
- Putting the transatlantic axis to the test: What would be the consequences of the USA turning away from its role as a European defence power? Can Europe close the resulting gap itself?
- European defence autonomy: vision or reality? How realistic is an independent European security architecture - with or without a European army?
- Investing in security: How much does Europe need to invest in its defence to meet both its own security needs and international commitments?
- The role of NATO and EU enlargement: What is the significance of NATO membership and EU enlargement for the security of Ukraine, Moldova Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia and the Western Balkans in the face of Russian aggression and influence?
- Global crises as a security policy challenge: How do global crises such as climate change, pandemics, flight and migration as well as extremism affect Europe's security and stability?
- Domestic political tensions and European security: To what extent do increasing nationalism and right-wing populism in the EU member states influence European security and defence policy and the ability to act in unison?
On the panel: Dr Jana Puglierin (Head of Office, Berlin and Senior Policy Fellow, European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR)); Prof Dr Johannes Varwick (political scientist and Chair of International Relations and European Politics, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg); Major General Wolf-Jürgen Stahl (President of the Federal Academy for Security Policy)
Moderation: Jörg Lau (Die Zeit)