Asset Publisher

Further publications

Asset Publisher

IMAGO / Le Pictorium

From a “Dormant to a Leading Middle Power"

Foreign and Security Policy of Germany’s New Government

Germany finds itself alongside its European allies and partners in a complex security environment. Russian aggression in Ukraine continues to threaten broader European security, while the concerning escalation in the Middle East, transatlantic trade tensions, and global power competition are further complicating the geopolitical landscape.

Dr. Hardy Ostry, Maša Ocvirk
July 4, 2025
Country reports
IMAGO / Xinhua

China ahead of the BRICS summit in Rio

"Rien ne va plus" or "now more than ever"?

For the first time since assuming office in 2013, Chinese President and Communist Party leader Xi Jinping will not attend a BRICS summit in person. Instead, Premier Li Qiang will represent the People’s Republic of China at the gathering in Rio de Janeiro. From Beijing’s perspective, the ongoing conflicts — and the direct involvement of fellow BRICS members such as Russia and Iran — have significantly dampened expectations for the summit’s success. Against this backdrop, signs are mounting that China’s enthusiasm for the BRICS format is waning, giving way to growing disillusionment and lowered ambitions.

David Merkle, Chengzhan Zhuang
July 4, 2025
Country reports
IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire

Indonesia's first BRICS summit after accession

Why Indonesia joins BRICS and still remains independent

In January 2025, Indonesia surprisingly joined the BRICS community of states. This raised concerns among Western observers that Indonesia could abandon its traditional foreign policy position of ‘non-alignment’ and move closer to China and Russia. However, the accession is actually part of the Indonesian government's strategy to integrate its own country into the most important multilateral formats. It is therefore not a contradiction for Indonesia to push for its own accession to the OECD at the same time. The Western international community should support Indonesia's integration efforts and make concrete offers of cooperation to the Indonesian government. Indonesia's BRICS accession could then even have a positive effect for the West and strengthen the balance within the BRICS - and thus weaken China's dominant influence in the group.

Dr. Denis Suarsana
July 3, 2025
Country reports
IMAGO / SNA

Brazil as a Bridge Between BRICS+ and Europe?

Brazil’s BRICS+ Presidency Ahead of the Rio de Janeiro Summit

Brazil is using its BRICS+ presidency in 2025 to promote a more inclusive and sustainable world order as a pragmatic mediator in the so-called ‘Global South’ and to preserve its independence in foreign policy. For Europe, this presents both challenges due to the growing heterogeneity and independence of the BRICS+ group, as well as opportunities for a strategic partnership, for example through the EU-Mercosur agreement and joint projects in the areas of climate, health and technology. It is crucial that Europe recognises Brazil as an equal partner in order to jointly set global standards and actively shape the multipolar world order.

Maximilian Hedrich
July 3, 2025
Country reports
IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire

The UAE – (not) just another BRICS member?

Admission to BRICS strengthens the Emirates’ economic and foreign policy ambitions

Although the UAE seem like an unusual member of BRICS, the Emirates have embraced their admission to join the group in 2024. Being a BRICS-member furthers Abu Dhabi’s agenda to become an economic hub and is part and parcel of its diversified foreign relations. For Europe this should be a wake-up call.

Philipp Dienstbier
July 2, 2025
Country reports
Adobe Stock/ 1xpert

The European Union – stabilised internally, confronted externally

Results of the Panorama Analysis 2025

The Panorama Analysis 2025 provides a comprehensive insight into the current development of the European Union and its environment in a year-on-year comparison. The analysis presents a multithematic assessment of the current situation in the areas of innovation and competitiveness, the attitudes of member states towards the EU, and the global environment. By using qualitative and quantitative indicators, it provides sound insights into current trends and developments.

Philipp Burkhardt, Tim Peter
July 2, 2025
Facts and Findings
IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire

Egyptian perspectives on the BRICS conference in Brazil

Egypt sees itself as an active partner in the BRICS alliance, but the topic is only discussed to a limited extent in the public debate

Since joining BRICS in January 2024, Egypt has positioned itself as an active partner focused on financial reform and cooperation with the Global South. President Al-Sisi criticized traditional institutions like the UN and emphasized BRICS' role in addressing global crises. Egypt advocates for fairer debt systems and stronger economic sovereignty within the alliance.

Steffen Krüger
July 2, 2025
Country reports
IMAGO / Xinhua

Romania after the election: A difficult equation to solve

New president, new government, large budget deficit

Romania has experienced turbulent months: A gruelling presidential election campaign, the resignation of the prime minister, and ultimately a fragile coalition government mark a new political beginning. With Nicușor Dan and Ilie Bolojan, two reformers now lead a country plagued by fiscal problems and deep distrust of the political class. But the new government must first prove itself – in a parliament with difficult majorities, facing a disaffected population, and in the shadow of a budget crisis. A new beginning with many unknowns.

Katja Christina Plate
June 26, 2025
Country reports
Titelbild mit der KI Adobe Firefly generiert, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e. V.

No Fear of Numbers: Why Math Belongs in Early Childhood Education

Strengthening Educational Opportunities Through Early Support

Early math education strengthens logical thinking, STEM skills, and social participation. Even toddlers develop a sense of patterns, quantities, and structures when supported by skilled early childhood educators. Introducing mathematical learning in preschool not only improves future career opportunities but also promotes equity, democratic understanding, and a sense of agency. To achieve this, we need strong structural support, professional development, more qualified staff, and political commitment.

Tobias Ernst
June 26, 2025
Facts and Findings
Titelbild mit der KI Adobe Firefly generiert, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e.V.

Criminal responsibility limits in Europe: Insights into the legal situation and juvenile delinquency

How European countries deal with criminal responsibility limits and what conclusions can be drawn for the German debate

The discussion about lowering the criminal responsibility threshold in Germany to less than 14 years of age is controversial. Proponents argue that earlier criminal interventions are necessary to prevent criminal careers. Critics warn against stigmatization and point to alternatives such as preventive and educational measures. A comparison of models in countries such as the UK, Sweden and Switzerland shows different approaches and their implications. This analysis sheds light on key challenges and perspectives for Germany.

Annika Schröder
June 26, 2025
Facts and Findings

Asset Publisher

Asset Publisher