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Introduction

Europe is confronted with significant change. After five decades of steady globalisation and open trade, global integration is slowing — and in some areas, reversing. In 2024, former ECB chief Mario Draghi underscored the urgent need to strengthen Europe’s economic competitiveness, setting out more than 300 recommendations across key industries. The report highlighted three central priorities: closing the innovation gap to reignite growth and address declining productivity amid demographic shifts; reducing strategic dependencies; and safeguarding the interests and well-being of European citizens.

In response, European strategic autonomy has emerged as a defining priority, with Europe seeking greater independence in policy, security and economic decision-making.

Why is strategic autonomy so vital for Europe?

Strategic autonomy underpins Europe’s ability to protect its interests in an increasingly uncertain world. Geopolitical tension, technological disruption and economic interdependence have exposed vulnerabilities — from energy dependence and fragmented defence capabilities to reliance on foreign technology and critical raw materials. At its core, it is Europe’s capacity to act independently in defence, foreign policy, the economy and technology, without undue reliance on external powers.