The Bonn Future Lab 2025 took place under the motto “Securing a Sustainable Space” as the second part of the International Security Forum Bonn. Designed as a workshop for strategic foresight, the format brought together the three key pillars of a future-oriented space policy: industry, security, and governance. According to Kriening, it is precisely this integrative approach that distinguishes the Bonn Future Lab from other space conferences. The aim of the workshop was to develop strategies and scenarios that would enable Europe to play a key role in space and strengthen its own strategic sovereignty.
A central problem in the European debate on the use of space has long been what is known as “space blindness.” Both political decision-makers and the general public have failed to recognize the enormous dependence of modern societies on space, or have deliberately ignored it in some cases. This blindness is particularly evident in the lack of space-related degree programs and professorships. As a result, Germany and Europe lack highly qualified specialists who could scientifically accompany and shape Europe's future development and strategic orientation in space.
According to Kriening, the conclusion of the Bonn Future Lab 2025 is clear: Europe must invest heavily in space travel and significantly expand its production and launch capacities. In addition, bureaucratic processes must be accelerated significantly in order to remain competitive internationally.
It is now crucial that politicians overcome their “space blindness” and take consistent action. Europe remains in the race for a central role in space, but must pursue this ambition with determination. Europe's particular strength lies in its ability to set sustainable standards for the future in order to ensure the long-term, responsible use of this central domain of human civilization.
