gorodenkoff/iStockphoto
gorodenkoff/iStockphoto
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Sovereignty and Security
Global conflicts,cyberattacks, and geopolitical tensions are posing challenges for society: strengthening technological sovereignty, countering fake news and disinformation, and combining forward-looking research with responsibility. This involves promoting innovations that build trust and enhance security.
Resilience means not only responding to crises, but also being prepared for them. Today, security means thinking about technology, politics, and society together. Security is about far more than military defense. It includes protecting digital infrastructures, countering disinformation, and strengthening societal resilience. In a networked world shaped by crises and uncertainties, new strategies must be developed to remain flexible, resilient, and capable of action
A key goal is technological sovereignty. Europe must not be dependent on imports or external platforms in security-critical areas. Whether in microelectronics, cybersecurity, or communication systems, independent capabilities and sovereign technologies are the basis for political and economic action.
At the same time, the digital public sphere is reshaping our understanding of security. Fake news and disinformation threaten social cohesion and undermine trust in democratic processes. New approaches to public awareness, digital literacy, and technologies for detecting manipulative content are necessary to safeguarding public discourse.
Traditional national security aspects are also changing. New defense is no longer solely about military strength; it also encompasses hybrid threats, the protection of critical infrastructure, and closer cooperation between government, industry, and science. Security is understood as a broader, interconnected and interdisciplinary concept.
Global trends such as migration and intercultural integration are also part of a resilient security architecture. Societies that embrace diversity as a strength are better equipped to withstand crises and tensions. Programmes aimed at attracting skilled professionals help ensure that key sectors remain future-proof not only technologically but also in terms of human capital.
Cybersecurity is a key area of action in this regard. Attacks on companies, public authorities, and critical infrastructures are on the rise and require the continuous development of technologies and strategies.
Many technologies can be used for both civilian and military purposes. The responsible management of these dual-use developments requires clear framework conditions and close coordination between research, policymakers, and society.
In addition, futures research plays a crucial role. Only by developing scenarios, analysing risks and exploring alternative courses of action can societies respond effectively to unforeseen events. Forward-looking research not only strengthens resilience but also creates new opportunities for innovation and sustainable security strategies.
Resilience and security are therefore cross-cutting issues that affect many areas of life: from the digital public sphere and the technological basis to social issues such as migration and integration. Through our projects, we connect these different dimensions and contribute to building a society that is resilient, sovereign and prepared for the future.
Contact
Head of Department Industrial Policy and Foresight
Head of Department Communication Systems, Human-Machine Interaction, Health
