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Foreign, Security and Defence Policy

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Ukrainian flag in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin
Creator: © Olaf Schülke / picture alliance / SZ Photo

Policies that Promote Peace, Security and Stability

New foreign policy challenges are putting the EU to a test. The glory of the Nobel Peace Price from 2012 seems to be fading, while the Union faces new geopolitical realities. Committed to a multilateral global order, the EU sees its mission in promoting dialogue, diplomacy and development to ensure security and stability in different contexts of crises and conflict. Not relying alone on its soft power, and following a "principled pragmatism," it has made the creation of a more independent security and defense policy one of its core tasks.

Through its formats, the FES EU Office works to ensure that the Common European Defense policy remains part of a value-driven and peace-oriented foreign and security policy and that the EU continues to advocate a multilateral order, especially against the backdrop of geopolitical power struggles and weakened international regimes.

Related News, Events and Publications

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Perspective Paper: EU engagement in Central Asia - a reality check

Russia's invasion of Ukraine impacted power dynamics in Central Asia. A new study based on over forty interviews from the region analyses the shifts and what they mean for the EU.

Creator: © Flo Müller
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Online policy dialogue: War in Lebanon - political impact of a regional war

The war in Iran risks further destabilising the entire region. Lebanon is heavily affected, yet developments there have received little attention. Join our webinar to discuss what the latest escalation means for the country.

Thousands of Lebanese civilians flee their homes in southern Lebanon and the Beqaa Valley on March 2, 2026, following Israeli military strike threats and subsequent heavy aerial bombardments. Displaced residents moved toward the capital, Beirut, and safer northern regions as the intensity of the air raids increased throughout the day.
Creator: © picture alliance / Anadolu | Mohammad Abushama
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Presentation of the Peace Report 2025: World in turmoil - How to shape a new order, maintain geopolitical influence and safeguard peace?

Join experts on 20 November to discuss the findings of the Peace Report 2025 and explore, how the EU can strengthen its role as an institutional peacekeeper.

A model of a globe casting a shadow on the wall behind it.
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Panel discussion: The EU-UK Progressive Forum – A new Chapter

The relaunch of relations between the EU and the UK marks a shift towards more constructive engagement following years of post-Brexit tension. Join our public conference to discuss which strategic questions will structure the future of...

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A future for a progressive transatlantic partnership

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Policy Paper: EU instruments to counter fragility and crises 

Are you looking for an accessible summary on the EU instruments to counter fragility and crises? Then, read our new policy paper!

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