Global trade networks have secured the world’s food supply for decades – but their growing concentration is making them increasingly vulnerable to geopolitical shocks and strategic dependencies.
By Arif Husain and Vera Songwe
Germany urgently needs skilled workers – both now and in the long term. It is therefore right that the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) is addressing the issue directly with the launch of its Skilled Workers Alliance “WE-Fair” in mid-March. However, the ministry must avoid taking too narrow a view.
By Markus Demele
Cutting red tape is part of the agenda for greater competitiveness, which was the focus of the informal meeting of heads of state and government. The EU’s deregulatory zeal could massively weaken nature, climate and water protection.
By Raphael Weyland
Only if industry, politics, the military and new technologies work together systemically can Europe translate its security policy ambitions into operational capability, write Henrik Ahlers, Jan Kallmorgen and Andreas Frank from EY Germany.
By Henrik Ahlers, Jan Kallmorgen and Andreas Frank
The Year of the Horse is being celebrated with unusual extravagance. Why Beijing is extending the holidays – and why anything goes when it comes to tapping the “spirit of dragon and horse” (龙马精神).
By Johnny Erling
To remain competitive with China, Brussels is considering extending the free allocation of CO₂ allowances. But prolonging free permits will not halt the exodus of industry. What is needed instead is an industrial policy that consistently prioritizes investment in future technologies.
By Sabine Nallinger
Amid mounting geopolitical pressures and declining competitiveness, the EU faces pivotal choices. The informal leaders’ retreat presents an opportunity to chart a clear industrial strategy focused on strategic autonomy – rather than relying solely on deregulation.
By Linda Kalcher and Neil Makaroff
The Bundeswehr and European sovereignty require technological security in all dimensions. Stephanie Willmann argues that there is less urgency in terms of funding than in the implementation of a clear strategy for defense and innovation.
By Stephanie Willmann
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae has led her party to a surprise victory in the parliamentary elections. Will an aging Japan be able to change in a short space of time under a headstrong female prime minister?
By Taniguchi Tomohiko
While the omnibus laws have eased restrictions on the environment, sustainability and digital issues, the Commission has not yet tackled social policy. In October 2025, the heads of state and government last called for the “agenda for simplification” to be advanced.
By Oliver Zander
