“Germany Should Embrace a Larger Role in Europe.” In an article for ‘Strategy: Rethinking European Power’, HCSS Research Director Dr. Tim Sweijs argues that Europe must strengthen its strategic autonomy as global power dynamics shift. He contends that Europe’s future influence depends on reinforcing three core pillars: economic strength, military capability, and political resolve. With major powers becoming less reliable, middle powers – particularly Germany – have a growing responsibility to lead. By investing in defence, technology, and critical infrastructure, Europe can build the resilience and independence needed to safeguard its interests.
Key Messages:
→ As the major powers become more withdrawn and increasingly unpredictable, the importance of middle powers for the stability of the international order is growing.
→ Strategic autonomy begins with strategic emancipation: Europe must learn to define its interests, objectives, and priorities independently of other great powers.
→ Europe’s capacity to act rests on three pillars: economic power, military capabilities, and political resolve.
→ Expanding Europe’s defence, technology, and infrastructure capabilities is a prerequisite for credible deterrence and strategic independence.
→ Germany enjoys the trust of many European partners and should assume a more active role as Europe’s leading middle power.
“Strategy: Rethinking European Power” is a special edition of human magazin, edited by founder Dr. Rebekka Reinhard, with contributions from high-ranking German and international experts examining strategic thinking and action as a key capability for a Europe in transition.
The the full magazine can be downloaded in both English and German version here: https://human-magazin.de/#magazin
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