Strategic Trends 2025 and the Implications for Europe

Strategic Trends is the annual flagship publication of the Center for Security Studies (CSS) at ETH Zurich, providing in-depth analyses of major global developments with a focus on international security. The 2025 edition, titled “Navigating Fractures and Uncertainty”, offers a comprehensive analysis of pressing global challenges. It examines the future of the global order amid shifting power dynamics; the reconfiguration of the Eurasian geopolitical landscape; lessons from ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and their long-term implications; the future of Euro-Atlantic–Indo-Pacific cooperation and strategic alignments; digital capabilities as a strategic resource in contemporary security; and, the control and cooperation needed in the development of advanced technologies. As global security dynamics continue to evolve, Europe will need to navigate growing challenges and opportunities in defence, diplomacy, trade and technological governance. This event aimed to foster dialogue on how Europe – broadly defined – can adapt its strategic posture to these developments.

The Centre for Security, Diplomacy and Strategy (CSDS) at the VUB and the Center for Security Studies (CSS) at ETH Zurich co-hosted a panel discussion marking the launch of CSS’ Strategic Trends 2025. The discussion reflected on the insights from Strategic Trends 2025, and offered a forward-looking analysis of emerging geopolitical dynamics and their implications for European security. The event took place as part of the EU in International Affairs conference 2025.

Concept Note and Programme