The current geopolitical situation, with rising tensions, conflicts, and disruptions to global supply chains, has made defence and security a top priority for Europe. At the same time, climate change is physically impacting the EU’s defence and security landscape and increasing demands on the military for disaster relief operations at home. Proactively managing the risks that climate change poses are essential to ensure resilience and preparedness, both civilian and military.
Therefore, the meeting brought together senior representatives from EU institutions, national authorities, the military, industry, and research to share ideas and experiences. The discussion was divided into two parts: how climate change affects the defence sector and how to enhance its resilience, and how climate change impacts European security and what can be done to manage related risks.
A recurring observation across both sessions was that the gap is no longer one of knowledge or political recognition; it is one of institutional translation. Climate considerations are still not consistently embedded in defence procurement, capability planning, budget processes and national risk assessments. Commission Hoekstra highlighted in his opening speech the potential of building climate into security decisions: “climate resilience for the defence sector is an opportunity to create new technologies, capabilities and opportunities for growth”.
Multiple participants raised the issue of disinformation warning that hostile actors are exploiting climate disasters to spread fake news weakening trust in governments and democracy. There was a consensus that to build resilience Europe must address not just physical risks but also digital threats ensuring citizens understand and trust EU policies.
The discussions held at the roundtable will serve as input to the development of the EU’s Integrated Framework for Climate Resilience, planned by the end of 2026, which aims to improve preparedness for climate impacts across all sectors and levels of governance. The roundtable will also help prepare for a high-level event on defence, energy, and climate later this year, which will explore new actions and potential updates to the EU’s Climate Change and Defence Roadmap.
