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.
Looking Back at GLOBSEC 2026: Strengthening Europe’s Geopolitical Role in a Time of Systemic Transformation
At GLOBSEC 2026 in Prague, HCSS analysts Irina Patrahau and Benedetta Girardi joined discussions on Europe’s geopolitical future, economic security, and strategic resilience. From co-hosting a side session on Europe’s geoeconomic statecraft to participating in the prestigious GLOBSEC Young Leaders Forum and GLOBcast podcast, they explored how the EU can translate economic strength into geopolitical influence in an increasingly fragmented world. Read our recap for key insights on European competitiveness, strategic partnerships, energy security, and the challenge of turning ambition into action.
GLOBcast with Irina Patrahau | Navigating Disruption: Europe’s Energy and Security Crossroads
As energy, technology, economics, and security become increasingly intertwined, Europe faces critical questions about resilience, competitiveness, and strategic autonomy. In GLOBSEC’s flagship podcast, GLOBcast, HCSS’ Irina Patrahau joins Roger Hilton to discuss Europe’s vulnerabilities in energy and critical minerals supply chains, the risk of new dependencies emerging through the green transition, and how the EU can navigate growing competition with China. Drawing on insights from GLOBSEC 2026, the conversation explores what Europe must do to strengthen its strategic position in an increasingly contested geopolitical landscape.
