From June 12 to 13, 2025, the conference “The Europe is …? Long live the new Europe!” brought together experts in Tbilisi, Georgia and was hosted by the Security, Policy & Nationalism Research Center (UGSPN). Against the backdrop of an increasing number of autocratic regimes and attacks on democratic societies, the conference addressed the future of the European idea and associated challenges. During the two-day event, experts discussed effective strategies for countering authoritarian advances, as well as the implications of the new U.S. policy on European security and defense.
Sascha Hach participated in the conference and moderated the panel “Towards Security/Defence Autonomy”. There, he analyzed the necessity and possible design of stronger European autonomy in security matters, particularly in light of growing uncertainties and changes in transatlantic cooperation. Other panels discussd EU enlargement policy in the South Caucasus and prospects for cooperation and integration amid the fragile security situation. The conference also highlighted the future of autocracies in light of recent political events in Georgia, and social and institutional resilience to autocratic advancements.
Further information on the conference can be found on the conference website.