- September 14, 2026
- 00:00
- -
- September 18, 2026
- 23:59
Political and public perceptions of security in Germany have shifted dramatically in recent years. In response to a changing security environment, Germany is making significant investments to strengthen Europe’s ability to act more independently by expanding military personnel, acquiring advanced capabilities, and investing in new technologies. Following an initial study trip to Norfolk, Virginia, in May 2026, participants in the project RESET – Reimagining the Transatlantic Future will reconvene in Wiesbaden, Germany, from September 14 to 18 to examine these developments and their implications for the transatlantic relationship. RESET, an initiative of the Aspen Institute Germany, brings together young political leaders from Germany and the United States who are active in youth party organizations for a multi-partisan dialogue on the future of transatlantic cooperation. The 2026 cohort focuses specifically on national security. During their time in Wiesbaden, participants will engage with key security and defense stakeholders, meet with regional policy makers, and take part in a foresight workshop. Through this exercise, the group will develop potential future scenarios for transatlantic and national security and identify lessons and implications for today’s policy makers. The Wiesbaden exchange will deepen participants’ understanding of how security challenges are perceived, debated, and addressed on the European side of the Atlantic, while exploring where German and U.S. perspectives converge and diverge in responding to shared threats.
