Expert Analysis | From Epic Fury to Energy Fragility: A Wake-Up Call Europe can no longer ignore
The 2026 Hormuz Crisis has triggered the largest and most complex energy shock in modern history, exposing deep vulnerabilities in Europe’s energy system. While the immediate disruption stems from conflict in the Gulf, the crisis has revealed a longer-term problem, warn Irina Patrahau and Lucia van Geuns: Europe remains heavily dependent on external energy supplies and continues to respond with emergency measures rather than structural reform. As geopolitical tensions and climate-related risks intensify, the continent faces a stark choice between recurring crises and building lasting resilience.
Studio Schumpeter | Ron Stoop over Europa’s afhankelijkheid van Chinese zonnepanelen
China domineert de zonnepanelensector, maar overcapaciteit en prijsconcurrentie zorgen voor faillissementen. Goed nieuws voor Europa, zou je denken, toch? In podcast Studio Schumpeter stelt HCSS analist Ron Stoop dat als zelfs de Chinese reuzen het zwaar krijgen, geldt dat des te meer voor de fabrikanten op andere continenten. Het resultaat kan best zijn dat de productie van zonnepanelen zich nóg meer in China concentreert. Schadenfreude is dus niet op zijn plaats.
Expert Analysis | Defence Burden Sharing in Europe: A Burden in Itself
Europe’s growing defence ambitions raise a difficult question: what is a fair way to share the burden of collective security? In this new expert analysis, HCSS research scientist Rens van Dam explores why equal defence spending targets may not reflect the realities of threat perception across Europe. Using a Lindahl model based on countries’ proximity to Moscow, the research suggests that states facing greater risks should contribute more. As Europe adapts to a reduced U.S. role in NATO, the debate is no longer only about spending more – but about how to distribute costs fairly and effectively.
