Description

From the return of power politics and zero-sum conflicts to the instrumentalisation of migrants and cyberattacks, Europe is under threat. The classical distinction between war and peace is diminishing and the European Union faces increased competition, intimidation and coercion. International politics is increasingly transactional, EU values and multilateralism are being challenged, whereas democratic freedoms and international law are questioned. In short, Europe is in danger.

How can the Union operate in such an increasingly competitive strategic environment? How does it avoid ‘strategic shrinkage’, where it is at risk of being always principled but seldom relevant? The European Union has no choice but to build up its ability to provide security for its citizens, to protect its values and interests and to contribute to international peace and security. If the Union wants dialogue, diplomacy and multilateralism to succeed, it needs to develop both the language and capabilities of power. The Strategic Compass is expected to address these questions.

Looking ahead to 2022 and beyond, Josep Borrell Fontelles, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission (HR/VP), will deliver a keynote speech on 25 January 2022 outlining what is at stake for EU security and defence and outlining his political priorities. Following this opening, the HR/VP will engage in a moderated panel discussion.

To register your interest for the event, please complete this registration form by 21 January 2022. A full programme is attached and details for joining the event will be sent to registered participants. Please feel free to share this invitation with colleagues.

For any questions on the event, please contact Daniel Fiott, EU Institute for Security Studies, at daniel.fiott@iss.europa.eu

Programme

17:30-17:40
INTRODUCTION
Gustav LINDSTROM
Director, EU Institute for Security Studies

17:40-18:00
KEYNOTE SPEECH
Josep BORRELL FONTELLES
High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission

18:00-19:25
PANEL DISCUSSION
Moderator
Valentina POP
Europe Express Editor, Financial Times

Speakers

Josep BORRELL FONTELLES
High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission

Nathalie LOISEAU
Chair, Sub-Committee on Security and Defence, and Member of the European Parliament

Alexander STUBB
Professor and Director, School of Transnational Governance, European University Institute

Robert VASS
Founder and President, GLOBSEC

19:25-19:30
CONCLUDING REMARKS
Gustav LINDSTROM
Director, EU Institute for Security Studies