NATO Youth Summit 2024
On May 13, 2024, the “NATO Youth Summit” took place. This summit was a joint effort between NATO, Aspen International Partners, the Aspen Institute Romania, the Swedish Defense University and the Swedish Civilian Crisis Management Agency. The event took place across the Atlantic in Miami, Florida, United States and Stockholm, Sweden, and was followed by observers from around the world who took an in-depth look at the most pressing global issues of interest to younger generations and which role NATO plays in tackling them.
Three Aspen Germany alumni were invited to attend the summit. In a short interview, Abe Baker-Butler, Marlies Murray, and Moritz Ludwig told us about their impressions and experiences from Miami:
What was the most impactful part for you from the conference?
Moritz: I found most impactful that the conference gave young people the chance to connect with staff from NATO, the White House, and the U.S. State Department. Together with the other youth challenge winners, I was able to share perspectives on how to strengthen the defense alliance and what security issues pertain to young people.
Marlies: The in-depth discussion of issues such as climate change and the spread of disinformation, which are of particular concern to the younger generation, opened the door for an honest and open dialogue.
Abe: Meeting fellow young people from across the alliance was extremely impactful – it was inspiring to debate and discuss the most pressing issues for our societies with U.S. Americans and Europeans of all backgrounds.
What was an issue on which you changed your perspective?
Moritz: The various panels on different aspects of NATO’s role helped me understand how much multilateral cooperation concerning climate change and economic development depends on a peaceful status quo.
Abe: I actually changed my mind about Moritz’s proposal! Upon originally hearing about it, I was skeptical it could work, but after hearing his presentation at the summit, I am really excited about its feasibility and the potential it could have to limit the spread of disinformation on social media.
Marlies: The panel discussions raised my awareness of how important it is to combat disinformation more vigorously. With social media being such an integral part of our daily lives, we all have a responsibility to be aware of what we express and disseminate and the consequences it may have.
What are your plans for this summer and how do they relate to Aspen’s work?
Marlies: In my current position at the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, I am excited to continue working on programs related to the upcoming U.S. elections, particularly in swing states. Meeting with key players on the ground aligns with my professional and personal conviction to counter polarization and understand the factors and trends that are shaping our society.
Abe: This summer, I am working at the Interamerican Institute of Human Rights in San José, Costa Rica researching what has made Costa Rica’s democracy uniquely successful; the challenges threatening its democracy today amid regional and global democratic backsliding; and potential solutions to ensure democratic longevity. I have been well-prepared for this work by my involvement with Aspen’s Western Balkans Stakeholder Forum in 2022!
Moritz: In June, I started a summer internship at the Atlantic Council’s Europe Center in Washington DC. I am excited to be returning to the think tank world and contributing to events and publications related to transatlantic issues like the implications of the European elections or the NATO Summit in July.
What (in your view) is the greatest threat to the well-being of NATO societies and transatlantic relations?
Abe: Domestic wealth inequality. I believe that growing domestic wealth inequality is severely weakening our societies by increasing polarization, decreasing belief in the socioeconomic promise of our open societies, and (at least in the U.S.) intensifying opposition to foreign military and economic aid/involvement. All of these phenomena are harmful to transatlantic relations. They also create openings for adversaries to meddle in and weaken our societies, making it harder for us to counter our adversaries’ malign behavior.
Moritz: I believe the combination of increasing polarization and the spread of disinformation on national security issues is extremely dangerous. Trust in the transatlantic defense structure is undermined by false narratives and anti-American sentiments. It is thus essential to focus on clear communication, inclusive dialogue, and determined leadership, both off- and online.
Marlies: Social division and polarization, both between our countries and on the world stage pose a threat to transatlantic relations as well as to societies around the globe. Multilateralism is important and something we must continue to strive for, especially in times when it seems almost impossible to achieve.
The summit served as a platform to socialize, connect, increase understanding, exchange views and explore how the transatlantic alliance is addressing current and future challenges. It could be followed online. For more information, please click the following link: https://natoyouthsummit.com/
