My colleagues and I just wrote this piece (click on the image to download it). It examines three interconnected challenges to the cohesion and effectiveness of the Transatlantic alliance and broader Western security structures. First, it explores the impact of neoliberal economic policies on society, highlighting how they have fostered discontent with political elites and created vulnerabilities that can be exploited by external adversaries. Second, it addresses the issue of democratic backsliding, noting how diminished democratic integrity exposes Western societies to influence operations by authoritarian states and weakens their resilience. Finally, the paper considers NATO’s internal dynamics, focusing on issues like burden-sharing, enlargement, and security strategies concerning Russia. The analysis underscores the fragile state of European security as it confronts pressures from both internal weaknesses and external threats. The authors conclude by emphasizing the need for policy adaptations to enhance democratic resilience, ensure economic stability, and strengthen military capabilities in an increasingly chaotic world shaped by U.S.-China competition.

For the full paper click here!