Preserving the Global Conditions for Europe’s Model: The Case for a Westphalian Grand Bargain
The European Union needs to reposition itself in an international order that is shaking the foundations of its own values.
Germany Needs Real Change. The Key? Climate Policy
The German economy is already paying the price for having put the green energy transition on the backburner. To win the future, it needs four “Ds”: Decarbonization, digitalization, decentralization, and democratization.
No More Gray Areas
Like Germany, Finland and Sweden are going through security policy “turning points.” Like Berlin, Stockholm is playing catch-up on defense, whereas Helsinki has long been regarded as a model for an integrated security approach.
Zeitenwende in Japan: Catalyzing Historic Change
From Tokyo’s point of view, the European and Asian strategic theaters are becoming interlinked. Russia’s war against Ukraine has accelerated Japan’s defense spending and prompted a fundamental change in its strategic culture.
Op-Ed: A Strong Defense
In a more dangerous and competitive world, Germany’s Zeitenwende is the right decision. Strong German defense, with a more robust and ready Bundeswehr at its core, is key for lasting peace and security—for Germany, Europe, and NATO.
Europe and the Global South
Whether it's about the EU's relations with developing countries or Germany's economic model, it's time to try something new.
Where AI Can Replace Diplomats—and Where It Shouldn’t
Artificial intelligence is upending the art of diplomacy. But is the field ready?
The Global South Is a Geopolitical Reality
Caught in a Western, Eurocentric world view, the European Union has not yet woken up to the fact that it needs to fundamentally change its approach to developing countries.
Why Macron Is Now Embracing EU and NATO Enlargement
Paris no longer sees EU enlargement as an obstacle, but as a catalyst for its “European sovereignty” agenda. It’s an uncertain bet, but there are two good arguments for why an EU that moves further east may pave the way for a “Europe puissance.”
A Growing Influence
China and, to a far lesser degree, Russia, have expanded their economic and military engagement with countries in Africa and Latin America. If Europe wants to counter this, it needs to look closely at what has worked.
The Rightward Turn
Across the globe, the traditional center-right is moving in the direction of the New Right. The emerging ideology is National Conservatism.
Looking for “Global Partnerships” in a Multipolar World
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock have put the search for overlapping interests with Asian, African, and Latin American countries at the center of their foreign policy approaches. It’s a work in progress.