Security and defence

Global power shifts are changing international relations and the repercussions are felt around the globe. This web dossier by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung explores these changes. The contributions discuss how non-major power actors respond, the prospects of (cross-)regional cooperation and a potential role for the European Union.

Europe’s defence map is being redrawn. Our new Böll EU Brief tracks over 160 defence partnerships signed since 2014 among EU countries, the UK and Ukraine – most of them after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Bilateralism boosts trust, interoperability and procurement speed, but also risks duplication and fragmentation. To turn this patchwork into strategy, the EU and NATO should map and integrate these deals into joint planning, strengthen the European Defence Agency’s role, and use bilaterals to offset declining US support.  

Subsea data cables are the digital lifelines of our modern world. Yet, external factors frequently expose vulnerabilities in the network and its supporting infrastructure. While around 150 cable faults occur globally each year, states suspect a growing number of cable faults to be linked to hybrid or malicious activity. Recognising that many states around the world face similar risks, the EU Action Plan on Cable Security proposes to establish “an advanced cable diplomacy”. But cable diplomacy is not a one-size-fits-all strategy. Technological sensitivities, dual-use aspects and geopolitical considerations demand a tailored approach. Where and how should the EU build effective cable diplomacy partnerships?

2024 is a crucial year for Transatlantic relations, with EU and US elections at both sides of the pond. This web dossier compilates articles, podcasts and resources from the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung offices and partners on the future of EU-US relations.

Since the EU published its EU-China Strategic Outlook in 2019, half a dozen EU Member States have come out with relevant China-related strategies. A new study by Jacob Mardell highlights that with each newly published national strategy on China or the Indo-Pacific, the overall EU approach towards China is also evolving.

With the dramatic takeover of power by the Taliban following the abrupt end of NATO's 20-year mission, Afghanistan is drifting into an uncertain political future. Our dossier offers insights into current developments and debates in Afghanistan, the region and Europe.