In an era of shifting alliances, technological disruption, and resource competition, Europe must be able to defend itself, protect its citizens, and project stability in its neighborhood and beyond. Sovereignty here means not isolation, but the ability to make independent choices, to act decisively, and to shape Europe’s strategic future. 

Co-hosted by the Munich Security Conference (MSC) and the Blavatnik School of Government, the European Defense Townhall brings together high-ranking senior policymakers and security experts to discuss a series of complex issues – such as drones, cyber resilience, satellite and deep strike capabilities, political decision-making capacity, geopolitical power projection, technological sovereignty, and resource security.

Moderated by Professor Ngaire Woods, Dean of the Blavatnik School, the townhall will hear from speakers including Benedikt Franke, Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Munich Security Conference, and Janina Dill, Professor in Global Security and Co-Director of the Oxford Institute for Ethics, Law and Armed Conflict (ELAC).

The audience is invited to actively participate in the discussion. 

The event will be followed by a drinks reception.