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The Climate and Security Policy Nexus in Europe

Panel Discussion Day 1

16:15 – 17:30

Published: 04 March 2026
Vier Personen sitzen auf hohen Stühlen vor einem weißen Hintergrund, eine Frau links hält ein Tablet, drei Männer rechts tragen Konferenzausweise. Four people sit on high stools against a white background, a woman on the left holds a tablet, three men on the right wear conference badges.

Growing geopolitical tensions, also amplified by the impacts of climate change, are reshaping the foundations of prosperity and stability in Europe. A swift transition to climate neutrality could strengthen Europe’s security, resilience and sovereignty.
The key challenge here is to identify and advance synergies between climate and security aims: Infrastructure, energy systems, industrial policy, and innovation can serve both decarbonisation and security objectives. Yet, important trade-offs require careful consideration, like the allocation of public investment or the governance of critical raw materials. Against this backdrop, the panel will explore how European climate and security policy can be aligned to achieve mutual benefits.

Questions

  • How can Europe strengthen its energy and critical raw material sovereignty as well as technological leadership, enhance security and advance climate action?  
  • How can climate action reinforce democratic resilience, security, and social cohesion? 
  • Can increased defence investment (e.g., ReArm Europe) accelerate decarbonisation and deliver crosssectoral benefits?