10/10/2025
Join us on Monday for an esteemed panel discussion on European Strategic Autonomy!
Since the end of the Cold War, Europe at large has consistently faced the challenge of meeting defence spending targets, deciding instead to benefit from the so-called ‘peace dividend’ provided by American presence in the region. Two events have majorly destabilised this status quo. Firstly, the Russian invasion of Ukraine has brought the prospect of interstate war with a major European power back to the forefront of political consciousness. Secondly, the US’ recent isolationist tilt has exposed Europe’s weakness in defence. In response, almost every European state has increased defence spending considerably, with notable leaders in Germany, Britain, France, Poland, and the Baltic states.
At the same time, however, serious questions remain over the sustainability of this funding, the effectiveness of implementation, and what Europe’s grand strategic objectives should be. Increased defence spending is likely to incur severe opportunity costs in the long-run, while public scepticism towards defence spending could challenge long-term commitment to increased defence spending. Moreover, security and defence policy is treated as a largely national competence, raising questions about the role of the EU and the potential of cooperation on larger European defence platforms. This event seeks to answer these questions and shed some light on one of Europe’s most existential threats.
This event is taking place next Monday, 4.30-6PM in CKK.2.06. We look forward to seeing you there!
Please note: This event will be capped at 50 attendees on a first come first serve basis. Nick Witney will be joining us virtually.
This event was organised by Grimshaw VP Jinyi Li and Speaker Officers Luka Lacey and Noa Trakman.
