17th Istanbul Security Conference® 2025 A NEW WORLD ORDER?

17th Istanbul Security Conference® 2025 A NEW WORLD ORDER?

The 17th Istanbul Security Conference® (ISC) in cooperation with Başkent University Ankara, brought together over 120 international security experts from more than 20 countries to discuss the evolving landscape of global security. Against the backdrop of increasing geopolitical and transatlantic tensions, the conference provided a platform for discussions with representatives from politics, diplomacy, business, and academia.

The focus of this year’s ISC was on geopolitical shifts and the impact of the transatlantic crisis on Russia’s war against Ukraine and European security, as well as the situation in Syria, the Mediterranean, and the Horn of Africa. In her speech, German Ambassador Sibylle Katharina Sorg emphasized the growing security responsibilities and Turkey’s role as a reliable NATO partner.

In the subsequent discussions, panellists warned of the risks posed by authoritarian regimes such as Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea and highlighted the importance of transatlantic unity as well as European self-reliance. Given U.S. policies on Ukraine and possible rapprochements with Russia, there were calls for a resolute NATO strategy. Even after a potential peace agreement, continued military and financial support for Ukraine remains essential to permanently deter Russian aggression. Europe’s security was viewed as inseparable from Ukraine’s, making it imperative for the EU to take more responsibility and intensify its defence strategy and investments. Energy dependencies and slow decision-making processes were seen as threats to European deterrence capability.

Another key discussion point was Syria’s reconstruction: the massive destruction, over 500,000 fatalities, and eleven million displaced people underscored the urgency of international cooperation. Turkey was cited as a key player in ensuring Syria’s territorial integrity.

Overall, the 17th Istanbul Security Conference® 2025 offered various perspectives on security challenges amid an uncertain future for the transatlantic partnership. The conference also provided an opportunity to discuss many additional topics, such as geopolitical challenges in the Mediterranean and maritime security in the Horn of Africa. The Trump administration was described as a catalyst for new thinking beyond traditional alliances. Nonetheless, this moment was seen as a chance for greater European and regional responsibility within the still vital transatlantic alliance.