Annual Baltic Conference on Defence 2024

24-25 September 2024 · Tallinn

Preparing for an Uncertain Future: A Brave New Europe for a Perilous New World?

The Annual Baltic Conference on Defence (ABCD) 2024 focused on the urgent task of building Europe’s own defence readiness. While providing military assistance to support Ukraine’s victory remains the most pressing task, NATO Allies and European states must continue to enhance their collective deterrence and defence posture to meet the military threat posed by Russia, which continues to reform and improve its military posture despite waging a large-scale war. Maintaining a strong and effective transatlantic partnership against this threat is as vital as ever, but Europe must be ready to play a more prominent role. The increased capability requirements will challenge the European Allies and their defence industries. More defence investment is imperative, and creative solutions will be required. The European Union, which continues to redefine its role in defence, also has a part to play in enhancing Europe’s defence readiness. The magnitude of the challenges European states face together also underlines the importance of ensuring their societies’ involvement in defence and motivating their citizens to be actively engaged.