The Forum was jointly organised by the Hybrid Warfare Research Institute (HWRI), the University of Defence and Security “Dr Franjo Tuđman” and the KAS Croatia-Slovenia Office. This partnership brought together academic research, practical security expertise and a shared commitment to democracy and European cooperation, providing a platform for international dialogue on hybrid threats and joint approaches to addressing them.
High-level guests included Major General Ivan Turkalj, Head of the Military Security and Intelligence Agency; Marijana Petir, a member of the Croatian Parliament representing the Speaker of Parliament; and Ivan Jušić, Head of the Human Resources Administration at the Croatian Ministry of Defence.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Dr Ivica Lučić, Rector of the University “Dr Franjo Tuđman”, emphasised the importance of cooperation between academia, political decision-makers and security institutions. In light of increasingly complex threats, he highlighted the need for coordinated responses and the responsible use of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI). Dr. Norbert Eschborn, Director of the KAS Croatia-Slovenia Office, underlined the importance of strong alliances, reliable institutions and a resilient economy in safeguarding democracy and freedom. Security, he stressed, must be built over the long term, before crises fully unfold. Marijana Petir also highlighted the importance of a reliable food supply as an integral component of national security.
The first day of the Forum focused on the evolution of hybrid warfare and the strengthening of national resilience. Discussions addressed Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, disinformation, foreign influence operations, cyberattacks and sabotage, as well as the security implications of technological and economic dependencies. Other key topics included the impact of AI on public opinion and democratic processes, and the protection of critical infrastructure in the energy, water and food supply sectors. Prof. Gordan Akrap, Vice-Rector of the University “Dr Franjo Tuđman”, drew attention to the dangers posed by targeted information operations that deepen societal divisions, undermine public trust in state institutions and weaken the defence capabilities of democratic states.
A particular highlight was the presentation by Prof. Dr. Ulrich Blum of the Institute for Economics and Technologies of Lithium, Germany, entitled “Innovative Defence against Hybrid Attacks – Can the West do Better?” His contribution explored ways to strengthen Western defence capabilities against hybrid threats, emphasising the importance of innovative approaches, international cooperation and the protection of critical infrastructure and digital systems. He also stressed the need to continuously adapt security strategies to respond effectively to emerging threats.
Early-career researchers were also represented at the Forum. Kie Jacobson, a former intern at the KAS Croatia-Slovenia Office, presented her paper entitled “Fragmentation Across Both Arenas: Croatia’s Strategic Role in EU-NATO Security and the Western Balkans.” Her presentation examined Croatia’s strategic position at the intersection of the EU and NATO security frameworks and developments in the Western Balkans. Particular emphasis was placed on Croatia’s role as a link between European and transatlantic security interests and as an important actor in promoting stability across Southeast Europe.
The second day of the Forum focused on the security challenges facing the Western Balkans. Key topics included the European integration process, Russian influence operations, disinformation and the significance of identity-related issues. Discussions also addressed maritime and energy security, the strategic corridor linking the Baltic and Adriatic Seas, and EU-NATO cooperation. The exchanges underscored the importance of developing joint capabilities, strengthening interoperability and pursuing a coordinated European and transatlantic security strategy.
The 11th Zagreb Security Forum 2026 demonstrated that protecting democracy and freedom requires a comprehensive understanding of security that integrates military defence capabilities, economic stability, technological expertise and societal resilience. The Forum provided an opportunity to assess current threats and discuss approaches to closer international cooperation. It thus reaffirmed its role as an important platform for security policy dialogue and for strengthening a resilient European security order.
