Suchergebnisse

Now that European defence budgets are (finally) on the rise, Europe's military circles are faced with one issue that has not been addressed at EU level: how do they want to fight? The US-led NATO alliance rightfully coordinates all doctrinal work in Europe at the moment, but the time to discuss how soldiers and weapons function in larger operations is coming, considering the US's gradual withdrawal amid increasing turmoil in the neighbourhood. Having these field concepts in place would demonstrate the determination and cohesiveness of the Europe of today while shaping the military procurement of tomorrow.

The Covid-19 pandemic, as well as climatic and energy constraints, have heavily impacted Europe's tourism and culture industries, which account for 4% to 5% of Europe's gross domestic product. Some European regions have been hit harder than others, as the tourism and travel sectors represent 9% of the gross domestic product in the south. Administrations and companies need to develop a new strategy to anticipate future imbalances and inspire new standards around the world, standards that involve less high-tech hardware, fewer carbon-intensive projects, less worldwide marketing, and a greater focus on the European middle class and its desire for eco-tourism.

Over the past 15 years, Western powers have been engaged in numerous battles in which technology has eventually prevailed over a patient but daring field presence. Today's adversaries, such as Islamic State, are well aware of this cultural bias: they are using our post 9/11 exhaustion to grab territories and spread offensive ideology. Western countries have no choice but to adapt partly to its adversaries' methods. Stability and peace will require cold cultural compromises as the pursuit of our interests and values requires a new tolerance threshold towards violence.

La fonction Polad existe depuis désormais vingt ans dans le cadre des opérations extérieures. Le conseiller politique auprès du commandant d'une force est un acteur « hybride » apportant une réelle plus-value grâce à son expertise et son expérience. Il reste à renforcer son rôle, notamment en termes de doctrine et de ressources humaines.