Never before have international development funds been cut as drastically as they are now. While it is true that we must be careful about how we spend money, much of what falls under the category of development aid is also a sound investment for the donors, says Philipp Rotmann, a security expert and director of the Global Public Policy Institute.
By Philipp Rotmann
Europe is underestimating a strategic shift in modern warfare: the intentional targeting of critical infrastructure. Russia has targeted Ukrainian civilian and critical infrastructure for years, but such energy systems have become central in the Iran War. Energy infrastructure is a particular focus: Strikes on gas and oil facilities illustrate how quickly economies can be destabilized by disrupting power grids, industrial production, and civilian supply. The resilience of critical infrastructure must move to the center of Germany’s and Europe’s defense and security agenda.
By Nina Locher and Loyle Campbell
Fast, secure data transmission is becoming a decisive factor in defense capability, the political scientist Holger Mey writes. Germany must expand its digital infrastructure, particularly in rural areas where many military bases are located.
By Holger Mey
In light of the economic consequences of a US-Iran war, Europe must rethink its current stance and also capitalize on the opportunities it presents. The continent should not only focus on the risks – it should also look for opportunities.
By Gerlinde Niehus
Georgia and Armenia are pursuing different paths toward Europe, but they are strategically intertwined. The EU must now ensure regional stability and curb Russia’s influence, says Georgia’s former prime minister.
By Giorgi Gacharia
The Gaza Board of Peace convened by Donald Trump has been widely criticized. However, it has also been endorsed by the United Nations (UN) and should therefore be used by the EU to advance a two-state solution, writes an analyst from the Center for International Peace Operations (ZIF).
By Tobias Pietz
The public health emergency response system still lacks many of the structures and guidelines needed to make it more resilient in times of crisis. Two civil protection experts argue that publicly funded hospitals should take the lead in this effort.
By Gollaleh Ahmadi and Björn Stahlhut
Development and security are not opposites, writes UN Deputy Secretary-General Kanni Wignaraj, but rather mutually reinforcing policy areas. Development aid must therefore be adequately funded.
By Kanni Wignaraja
Egypt is attempting to act as a mediator in the Middle East conflict while simultaneously facing a worsening economic crisis. Europe should also become more involved, writes Almut Wieland-Karimi of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation.
By Almut Wieland-Karimi
Given the growing importance of dual-use technologies for security and defense, there is a need for dialogue between civilian and military research. This could – similar to the strategic industrial dialogue – serve as a model for coordination between ministries.
By Marc Bovenschulte
