The HSSD’s 19th session meets His Majesty
The date 11 February 2025 will remain engraved in the annals of the High Studies for Security and Defence (HSSD). Indeed, the participants (‘auditors’) of the 19th session had the privilege of being received at the Royal Palace of Brussels for an exclusive audience with His Majesty the King of the Belgians.
HSSD: a high-level strategic training
The High Studies for Security and Defence (HSSD) are a programme of excellence organised by the Royal Higher Institute for Defence with the support of the Royal Institute for International Relations – Egmont. This multidisciplinary training is aimed at senior officers and executives from different professional backgrounds related to security and defence.
Throughout the year, the auditors take part in ten residential seminars, each lasting two days, as well as visits that enable them to deepen their knowledge and exchange views with experts.
A special meeting with the King
The audience at the Royal Palace was a highlight in this 19th session. Initially scheduled to last one hour, the meeting with His Majesty the King extended for nearly two hours, illustrating his deep interest in the HSSD.
The discussions revolved around key themes chosen by the auditors themselves, reflecting current strategic concerns:
- the export of foreign conflicts to Belgium
- the potential benefits of a civil/military service
- support for Belgians detained abroad
- the intensification of Benelux cooperation in defence and security matters
The auditors could benefit from the King’s thoughts and guidance on these major issues.
A prestigious historical setting: the Empire Room
The audience was held in the majestic Empire Room, one of the oldest parts of the Royal Palace. Adorned with gilding and bas-reliefs, this room was once the setting for court balls and concerts. Today, it serves as a solemn setting for official ceremonies, bearing witness to the tradition and prestige of the Royal Palace of Brussels.
An enriching and unforgettable experience
In addition to the audience, the day’s programme included an academic session led by several senior figures from the royal administration and a guided tour of the Palace. These different moments allowed the auditors to deepen their understanding of the functioning of the royal institutions and to strengthen their professional ties.
Our thanks
The 19th session of the HSSD would like to express its gratitude to all those who made this day possible. A huge thank you to the organisers for their dedication and professionalism, as well as to His Majesty the King for his warm welcome, the time he gave to the HSSD and his sincere interest in our training. This visit will remain a memorable experience for the auditors, strengthening their commitment and determination to make an active contribution to meeting the security and defence challenges in Belgium.
