High Studies for Security and Defence (HSSD):
review of the 5th seminar – the European Union at the heart of the debates

The High Studies for Security and Defence (HSSD) are an elite course designed to develop an in-depth understanding of contemporary strategic issues. Organised by the Royal Higher Institute for Defence (RHID) in partnership with the Egmont Institute – Royal Institute for International Relations, this course brings together senior officers, senior civil servants and civilian executives (30 auditors) to discuss current security, defence and geopolitical challenges.

The 5th seminar of the 2024-2025 edition was recently held on the central theme of the role of the European Union in the international landscape.

1️⃣ Highlights of the lectures and discussions

The European Union in international politics

Herman Van Rompuy, former President of the European Council, explored the current and future place of the European Union in a multipolar world. In the face of growing geopolitical challenges, his lecture underlined the importance of a united Europe to have a say in global governance.

The common security and defence policy (CSDP)

With presentations by Prof. Dr Steven Van Hecke (KU Leuven) and Prof. Dr Daniel Fiott (VUB), auditors explored the structure and ambitions of the CSDP, from its conceptualisation to its action on the ground. Brigadier General Bart Laurent (EEAS) enriched these perspectives by detailing the EU’s operational processes in crisis contexts.

Belgium and collective defence

Prof. Dr Alexander Mattelaer (VUB/Egmont) then discussed Belgium’s contribution to the new collective defence dynamic in Europe and the importance of establishing a framework for closer collaboration between Member States.

2️⃣ Interactive session: group discussion

The auditors took part in a group discussion on a crucial question:

More than 30 years after Marc Eyskens’ famous statement in 1991 (“Europe is an economic giant, a political dwarf and a military worm”), what has changed? What reforms could enhance the EU’s political and military effectiveness?

These discussions provided an opportunity to compare ideas and points of view on how to overcome the current obstacles, in particular the complexity of European governance structures and the divergent interests of the Member States.

3️⃣ A time for conviviality: New Year’s reception and dinner

The seminar concluded with a New Year’s reception and dinner attended by Rear Admiral (LH) Baudouin Coppieters de Gibson, RHID Director General, and General Major Jean-Pol Baugnée, Land Component Commander. On this occasion, all the auditors received a signed copy of Prof. Sven Biscop’s book: “This is Not a New World Order. Europe Rediscovers Geopolitics”.