Security Days: Countering fragmentation and polarization: Re-creating a climate for stability in Europe

When: 18 May 2017 (All day) – 19 May 2017 (All day)
Where: Czernin Palace, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic
Organized by: OSCE, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung

The global as well as European security environment is marked by growing divisions and uncertainty unprecedented for decades. The norms and principles underpinning the international order are challenged. There are signs that the open global economic system might be unravelling and protectionism may return. Multilateralism seems to be in retreat, with its key institutions being questioned and at risk of being weakened. A result could be a more fragmented and polarized multipolar world. Against this backdrop, Europe and the world are facing security challenges of increasing complexity and interconnectedness that cannot be solved without mutual co-operation and joint action.

This OSCE Security Days event aims to contribute to a dialogue on how to create a stable and resilient security environment in Europe at a time of growing global uncertainty and unpredictability. It will allow for a discussion of key challenges and trends in the development of the security environment in the OSCE area and their implications for regional security and stability. The event is expected to generate concrete ideas and recommendations for countering increasing fragmentation and polarization of the security environment in Europe, returning to constructive dialogue and pragmatic co-operation, and strengthening trust and confidence among the OSCE participating States. It will complement ongoing discussions within the OSCE and its outcomes will feed into these processes, including the Informal working group on structured dialogue on the current and future challenges and risks to security in the OSCE area.

For more information, visit the OSCE website.