How to future-proof NATO’s defence innovation and EDT strategy
Developing disruptive ways of warfare and advanced technological capabilities is a critical function for any military organisation, including NATO. Yet relying exclusively on technological superiority and novel technologies to sustain outdated ways of fighting has significant drawbacks. That is why understanding all the socio-technical factors that cause disruptive innovation should be a vital concern for […]
Blood, toil, tears and sweat: the European Political Community’s summit in the UK
The European Political Community (EPC) meets on 18 July for the fourth time. Hosted by the UK at Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, echoes of his ‘blood, toil, tears and sweat’ speech in May 1940 cannot be ignored. Facing an existential battle on the continent, Keir Starmer, the UK’s freshly elected prime minister, […]
The EU’s defence industrial policies – walking the walk with Euro-defence bonds
Over the last two years, the war in Ukraine has prompted the acceleration and multiplication of EU initiatives to enhance the European defence industry, and Europe’s ability to defend itself and support Ukraine’s defence. Besides spending better, spending together and getting private equity onboard, the next frontier for EU defence spending must be the issuance […]
EU-NATO relations – somewhere between dancing with two left feet and seamless tango
Russia’s war against Ukraine has proven to be a watershed moment for the EU, accelerating the development of a European Defence Union. But the EU and NATO must ramp up political cooperation and synergise resources to enhance European security and for the EU to credibly flex its muscles as a security and defence actor in […]
NATO turns 75 – how it can overcome complacency and reinforce transatlantic security cooperation for another 75
NATO turns 75 years old today. Since 1949, the world’s largest security and defence alliance has provided collective defence for North America and Europe. But, unlike a ‘brain-dead’ 75-year-old, NATO has found a new lease on life following Russia’s war against Ukraine and the arrival of two new Allies. While Allies should celebrate NATO’s achievements, […]
The Maastricht Treaty 30 years on
By manufacturing a crisis over Ukraine, President Putin is testing the West’s resolve and Russia’s place in a post-post-Cold War world. With the costs of preparing for war mounting, the Kremlin will soon be forced to act or scale back. The question is whether Putin will use the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics just as he […]
The Biden presidency is a last call for Europe
The presidency of Joe Biden heralds an opportunity for Europe, and more particularly the EU, to revive its relationship with the US. But it may also be its last chance. The EU will have to demonstrate tangible progress in the areas of defence, trade and global policy stances generally to ensure the good will of […]