Can we defend ourselves? Europe between Washington, Moscow, and Beijing
October 21st 2026 | 06:15 – 08:00 pm | Institut français Bonn and via ZOOM
Hybrid Event
While Donald Trump’s second term is placing a historic strain on transatlantic relations, Europe is currently facing pressure on multiple fronts. Concerns about a Russian attack in the Baltic states, drone threats, and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz are dominating the debates. Economic and technological competition, as well as cyber threats, are also playing an increasingly significant role. At the same time, Europe’s steadfast support for Ukraine demonstrates that it is indeed capable of successfully addressing geopolitical challenges.
It is therefore a pleasure to discuss Europe’s defense capabilities with a distinguished international panel and our audience. How resilient are various concepts of strategic autonomy? What political constraints hinder cooperation? What constructive role can France, Germany, and their European allies play in this regard?
We welcome to the panel Prof. Dr. Delphine Deschaux-Dutard, an expert on European and transatlantic security, military cooperation, and cyber defense, Prof. Dr. Ulrich Schlie, who conducts research on German foreign and security policy as well as strategy and diplomacy; political scientist Prof. Dr. Frédéric Charillon, an expert on international politics and defense diplomacy; and Dr. Una Aleksandra Bērziņa-Čerenkova, an expert on relations between China, Russia, and the European Union.
The events taking place as part of the Franco-German Strategic Dialogue are organized by the Center for Advanced Security, Strategic and Integration Studies (CASSIS) in cooperation with the Institut Français, the Centre Ernst Robert Curtius (CERC), and the Bonn University Group for Foreign and Security Policy (BHAS). The entire series of events is financially supported by the Fritz Thyssen Foundation.
Schedule
A panel discussion featuring:
Dr. Delphine Deschaux-Dutard
Professor of Political Science, University Grenoble Alpes
Prof. Dr. Ulrich Schlie
Director of the Center for Advanced Security, Strategic and Integration Studies (CASSIS)
Prof. Frédéric Charillon
Professor, University Paris Cité
Dr. Una Aleksandra Bērziņa-Čerenkova
Director of the Latvian Institute of International Affairs
Moderated by:
Andreas Noll
Journalist at Deutschlandfunk
Further Information
The events taking place as part of the Franco-German Strategic Dialogue are organized by the Center for Advanced Security, Strategic and Integration Studies (CASSIS) in cooperation with the Institut Français, the Centre Ernst Robert Curtius (CERC), and the Bonn University Group for Foreign and Security Policy (BHAS). The entire series of events is financially supported by the Fritz Thyssen Foundation. The event will be held in two languages, with simultaneous interpretation provided.
Disclaimer regarding photos and videos taken at events
Please note that photos and videos will be taken at this event. By participating, you agree that the Center for Advanced Security, Strategic and Integration Studies (CASSIS) may use any images taken before, during, or after the event for public relations purposes.