Partner Events

The security implications of Europe's energy thirst
Organiser : Security & Defence Agenda

12/1/2008 - 12/1/2008

Monthly Roundtable

12:00-13:30 Energy as a strategic tool Energy security is quickly becoming a growing concern for ESDP as strategic powers China and India rapidly increasing their energy consumption without the ability to develop reliable and affordable alternatives to oil and natural gas. Most European allies believe there is a solution to be found in market negotiations; however energy security is also prominently on NATO’s radar. With both Georgia and Ukraine aspiring for NATO membership, how does Russia’s emergence as the primary purveyor of natural gas for the European market affect stability in the region? How will the proposed Nabucco pipeline from the Caspian Sea affect strategic relations with Russia and its planned South Stream pipeline? How should the West respond to Iranian threats to use energy for political gain when many experts recognise that Iranian resources are economically best suited to source the Nabucco pipeline? 13:30-14:30 Lunch 14:30-16:00 Security's role in the race to the Arctic Climate change has brought about an unprecedented melting of sea ice in the Arctic Ocean. As a result, prospective oil fields have become accessible and potential new trading routes could open between Asia and North America, leading to a new ‘race for the Arctic’. An increasing number of states are claiming jurisdiction over great swathes of open sea. What are the security implications involved? How must NATO and EU states respond to Russian and Chinese interests in the region? Given that the Arctic might soon become traversable all year round, how will this affect maritime security in the North Atlantic region? Are the West’s navies sufficiently equipped for the challenges posed by this inhospitable environment? Click here for more information on this event



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