Baasma Wafa Jadetimes Staff
B. Wafa is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Europe
As global tensions increasing and geopolitical alignments in flux, Europe is making earnest efforts to advance its strategic autonomy. The heads of state from the European Union have underlined the importance of a more independent continent—both militarily, economically, and technologically.
The war in Ukraine, which continues to intensify, the tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, and the changing role of the United States in global security have led to EU countries putting more money into defense cooperation, digital infrastructure, and energy self-sufficiency.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently urged "a Europe that can stand on its own feet when needed," referencing initiatives like the European Defence Fund and cross-border energy projects to cut reliance on outside powers.
France and Germany are spearheading talks on an EU common defense policy, while other nations such as Sweden, Finland, and Poland are increasing military expenditure and NATO coordination. Meanwhile, the European Green Deal and pushes to end dependence on Russian energy have hastened the continent's shift towards non-renewable energy sources.
Economically, the EU is making digital sovereignty a priority through investments in the production of microchips, AI research, and cybersecurity. This drive seeks to make Europe competitive in the fast-evolving global economy where American and Chinese tech giants rule.
Despite difficulties—such as political fragmentation between member states and increasing far-right influence in parts of the bloc—the wider trend indicates a decisive European desire to forge its own destiny.
Experts think the next few years will prove pivotal in deciding if Europe can actually attain strategic autonomy or continue to be dependent on conventional alliances in an increasingly multipolar world.
