Foreign and Security Policy

More information

View of Earth's curvature showing North America, Atlantic Ocean, and Europe from space against black background — Creator: FES / Gemini3pro

The Transatlantic Relations they are a-Changin’

Transatlantic relations were a cornerstone for Germany, the EU, and Europe in general. For many years, the United States assumed the primary leadership role in the world – for its own good, but not solely. America as ‘the shining city on the hill’ was an example of values and norms such as democracy, liberty, peace, and prosperity. All of that had to be taken with a grain of salt – Vietnam, Afghanistan, Libya, Iraq, and now - Venezuela.
The National Security Strategy (NSS) 2025 clearly states the new priorities of the United States under the administration of President Donald Trump: U.S. foreign and security policy will be conducted foremost in its own interest to ensure that the United States will be safe, prosperous, and stable. The main subject is the U.S. nation, whereas alliances and the framework of multilateralism take a back seat. The era of a great power that cares for itself as much as for others in the name of global democracy, prosperity and peace seems to be over.

Come gather ’round, people, wherever you roam

After 80 years, the old liberal order is fading. The ‘Global North,’ consisting of Europe and the United States, and its economically strong and democratic allies around the world intended to enable other countries to become stronger. And that is happening – the states of the loose union of the BRICS countries account for over 40 percent of the world’s population and about 37 percent of the global GDP. The US and the EU account for around 14.5 percent.

It is up to all these nations to take on the enormous challenges of our time – nuclear ambitions, energy- and food security, and climate change – jointly, and peacefully. Solutions can only be achieved through a cooperative, and inclusive approach.

For Germany and Europe, it is now necessary to pursue a pragmatic approach toward transatlantic relations – a departure from what was once a relationship deeply rooted in trust. It is our goal to engage and convene transatlantic and international law- and decision-makers, experts, civic actors, and the next generation to generate ideas and policy recommendations for this purpose.

Group of 8 diverse professionals (4 women, 4 men) walking on urban outdoor path amid greenery and tents. Women in dresses, scarves, cardigans: men in suits, slacks. Smiling, chatting casually. Sunny day. — Creator: FES / Murray

Our Flagship Program: The Global Atlanticists

The Global Atlanticists meeting is our annual flagship program, where Members and staff of the German Parliament and United States Congress, government officials, academics, and civil society experts meet to discuss common Transatlantic challenges.

Blog in English

Security Radar 2025: Europe – Lost in Geopolitics

The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung's "Security Radar 2025 – Europe – Lost in Geopolitics" reveals a continent grappling with renewed conflict and waning trust in international institutions.