Brussels, [04.09.2025] – CEPS is launching a new Task Force on a European Pillar within NATO, in collaboration with RUSI, Clingendael, and Institute for European Policymaking (Bocconi).
Europe is facing an increasingly volatile security environment, shaped by Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine, heightened geopolitical competition and uncertainty over the future of transatlantic security commitments. Against this backdrop, the Task Force will explore what a robust, credible, and autonomous European defence pillar within NATO should look like – one that acts through the Alliance when possible, but also autonomously when necessary.
We are honoured that Sauli Niniistö, former President of Finland and Special Advisor of the Commission on Europe’s civil and military preparedness and readiness, agreed to chair the Task Force.
It will bring together policymakers, defence experts, industry representatives, and academics to define practical steps for strengthening Europe’s defence readiness. Its work will focus on capability gaps, industrial cooperation, financial mechanisms, and governance arrangements to ensure that Europe can both reinforce NATO’s Article 5 and deliver a stronger European security posture.
The first findings will be presented at CEPS 2026 Ideas Lab.
Learn more about the Task Force’s aims, partners, and methodology here
