Looking Ahead: Aspen Germany in 2026
2026 opens in a moment of extraordinary global turbulence. Political tensions between major power blocs are rising, Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine continues to shape the international security agenda, digital technologies are creating both unprecedented opportunities and new vulnerabilities, and growing polarization is testing the resilience of democratic societies. As geopolitical rivalries intensify, so too does the competition over technological sovereignty, regulatory influence, and the integrity of information ecosystems.
In this complex environment, we need spaces where rigorous analysis, constructive exchange, and long-term thinking remain possible. This is precisely where the Aspen Institute Germany comes in.
Our Priorities for 2026
Transatlantic Relations in a New Reality
With U.S. politics increasingly driven by domestic considerations and transactional dynamics, Aspen Germany is focused on safeguarding robust channels for transatlantic dialogue. Through initiatives such as RESET – Reimagining the Transatlantic Future, the U.S.–German Forum Future Agriculture, and the State-to-State Dialogue, we aim to strengthen exchange and mutual understanding – especially among emerging political leaders.
Strengthening Europe’s Capacity to Act
Europe faces profound security, institutional, and societal challenges that demand coordinated responses. In 2026, we will support EU enlargement and integration processes, while reinforcing communication and trust-building in the Western Balkans – including through our new security project SECURE and a series of confidential background dialogues.
Shaping the Digital Transformation – Responsibly and Strategically
From artificial intelligence to cyberthreats and platform governance, digital technologies are reshaping international relations and democratic decision-making more than ever before. With the German-American Trade and Tech Dialogue, our Digital-Dish series, and the new Inside AI Briefing, Aspen Germany seeks to strengthen exchange between policy makers, the tech community, business, and academia – evidence-based, globally connected, and forward-looking.
Open Dialogue for a Resilient Democracy
Aspen Germany will continue to serve as a space for political interpretation, mediation, and open exchange. Through Deep Dive Discussions, Fireside Chats, International Press Roundtables, and other public events, we aim to foster a factual, pluralistic culture of debate – accessible to experts and the broader public alike.
Promoting Values-Based Leadership
In times of rising uncertainty, we need leaders who listen, reflect, and provide orientation. Our Leadership Program,especially the “Philosophy and Practice” seminars and new Socrates dialogue formats, offers a protected environment to strengthen responsibility, ethical judgment, and inclusive leadership.
In 2026, we remain committed to our mission: enabling dialogue, connecting perspectives, explaining complexity, and sparking solutions across political and geographic boundaries. We look forward to working with our community and international partners to make this a year of meaningful dialogue, thoughtful engagement, and bold ideas.
