The National Convention on the EU published recommendations from a roundtable held on 26 September 2025, which focused on the role of the Czech Republic and the competitiveness of the European Union, including economic security, relations with the USA and China, and the Global Gateway strategy. The discussion addressed the steps the EU should take to strengthen its competitiveness and security, as well as the priorities the Czech Republic should promote in these areas.

Economic security and competitiveness are becoming key issues for the European Union in order to maintain its global position and internal stability. The EU faces a long-term lag behind the United States in innovation and technology, while pressure from China and other economic rivals is growing. A new wave of American protectionism, geopolitical upheavals caused by Russian aggression, and the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic have exposed the vulnerability of the European economy and its dependence on external supply chains. The European Commission has therefore presented a set of initiatives – from the Competitiveness Compass to the Clean Industry Agreement – aimed at strengthening resilience, reducing dependence on third countries, and streamlining the business environment. The Global Gateway initiative, which aims to diversify European trade and supply relations through strategic investments and partnerships, is also an important tool for strengthening the Union's global role. Given the strong industrial orientation and openness of the Czech economy, it is essential for Czechia to actively engage in these debates and formulate its priorities within the European economic security strategy.

The European security environment has changed fundamentally over the past decade in response to growing geopolitical risks. Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the growing influence of authoritarian powers such as China and Russia, and escalating tensions in key regions such as the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific are reshaping the way Europe views its security and defence. These challenges are leading to a deepening of defence cooperation within and outside the EU, which includes the development of new policies, structures and initiatives, and cooperation with NATO also underlines the need for strategic alignment between European and transatlantic partners. Written by EUROPEUM Institute researcher Zuzana Krulichová and research associate fellow Tereza Novotná.

Over the past decade, the European security environment has undergone significant changes, from the Russian invasion of Ukraine and escalating tensions in the Middle East to China's growing geopolitical ambitions. Europe is thus compelled to expand defence cooperation and strengthen its defence and security capabilities. These developments are accelerating EU Member States' efforts to develop robust common security and defence structures and policies to ensure the EU's stable position in the global geopolitical order. Writes EUROPEUM Institute researchers Zuzana Krulichová and Danielle Piatkiewicz and Associate Research Fellow Tereza Novotná.

This two-part online workshop series focused on NATO’s Open-Door policy and the potential for future eastern enlargement, offering a deep dive into the alliance’s evolving dynamics. Over eight engaging sessions, experts, students, and practitioners discussed Ukraine’s prospects for NATO membership, challenges posed by democratic reforms, border disputes, and regional perspectives within the alliance. The workshops also explored NATO’s role in space and cyber operations, its response to geopolitical challenges, and the impact of member states’ internal dynamics on enlargement. Specifically focusing on the views from the V4.