We hereby proudly present the HCSS Annual Report 2025!
As we move towards 2026, the international environment is characterised by deep uncertainty and rapid change. Great-power competition has intensified, economic interdependence is increasingly weaponised, and geopolitical, technological and environmental pressures are converging in ways that challenge existing political, economic and security frameworks. The war in Ukraine continues to reshape assumptions about stability, while shifting transatlantic relations, rising protectionism and fragmented supply chains underscore the fragility of the global order.
At the same time, emerging technologies are transforming societies, economies and security domains at unprecedented speed. Climate change is no longer an abstract future risk, but present-day reality demanding collective action — at a moment when trust in political leadership and international cooperation is under pressure. Closer to home, the Netherlands faces its own challenges, including a strained business climate, political uncertainty and persistent societal polarisation.
Against this backdrop, this Annual Report offers a comprehensive overview of our activities this year. Our Team’s output has been nothing short of exceptional:
- We published over 100 in-depth reports, policy briefs, academic articles, and books;
- We provided over 2000 commentaries for major national and international media – in print, online, on television, and on the radio;
- We have forged and strengthened partnerships with leading institutions worldwide while hosting many decision makers at the highest levels of government from Europe, the Indo-Pacific and beyond;
- We have welcomed over 2,200 participants to our conferences, symposia, workshops, and closed-door sessions, at more than 35 events on our premises in The Hague and elsewhere.
Throughout our 18th anniversary year, we delivered independent, fact-based analysis across five core programmes: Geopolitics & Governance; Economics & Technology; Defence & Security; Society & Resilience; and Climate, Water & Food.
HCSS does not claim to have all the answers. What we offer is clarity, context and long-term thinking—grounded in rigorous research and driven by a commitment to liberal democratic values. This Annual Report offers an overview of how we sought to contribute to understanding a rapidly changing world, and to identifying pathways towards a safer, more stable and more sustainable future.
On behalf of the entire HCSS Team, we thank our partners, supporters, and readers for their continued trust and engagement. We look forward to continuing the conversation in 2026.
We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
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