On the 4th of June, the JASON Institute Activities Committee organised an event at Leiden University College (LUC) in The Hague, gathering students, professionals, and policy enthusiasts to explore a timely question: what is the future of European defence integration in an increasingly fragmented world?
Under the banner “The Future of EU Defence Integration: Unity, Technology, and Policy in a Changing World,” the event opened with a keynote address by Dr. Sabine Mengelberg. With clarity and strategic insight, Dr. Mengelberg outlined the European Union’s current defence architecture, highlighting both its institutional evolution and the political complexities that continue to shape it. Her analysis situated the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy within the broader context of rising geopolitical tensions, technological competition, and a growing demand for European strategic autonomy.
Following the plenary session, participants divided into two interactive breakout sessions, each offering a distinct lens on the challenges and opportunities of integration.
Patrick Slaman, representing the Dutch Ministry of Defence, led a session focused on technological and industrial defence cooperation, using drone development as a case study. He illustrated how shared capabilities, joint procurement, and public-private partnerships are not merely technical matters but political and strategic imperatives. Slaman underscored the importance of interoperability across European forces and raised critical questions about sovereignty, standardisation, and defence-industrial competitiveness.
Meanwhile, a parallel session led by Jur van Kasteren of the Royal Netherlands Navy examined multilateral defence engagement. He emphasised the importance of unity of command to ensure a streamlined and strong policy against adversaries. Furthermore, his hopeful outlook for a European-led approach to defence cooperation sparked thoughtful discussion and left a lasting impression.
The evening concluded with drinks, providing a relaxed space for participants to connect with each other and continue conversations with the speakers.
