Munich Security Conference 2026 and Germany’s Role as the Host
Germany at the Center of Global Security Dialogue amid Geopolitical Upheaval
February 16th, 2026
The 62nd Munich Security Conference, held from 13 to 15 February 2026, convened at a moment of profound global uncertainty under the theme “Under Destruction.” As host nation, Germany once again provided a central platform for high-level dialogue on international security, diplomacy, and the future of the global order. The conference underscored Germany’s enduring commitment to multilateralism and constructive engagement amid accelerating geopolitical change.
First convened in 1963, the conference had evolved from a small, security-focused meeting aimed at fostering dialogue between Germany and its NATO partners into one of the world’s leading forums for international security policy. Over the decades, its scope expanded well beyond military affairs to encompass political, economic, and technological dimensions of global security, reflecting the changing nature of international challenges and Germany’s growing role as a convening power in global affairs.
With more than 1,000 participants from over 115 countries gathering in Munich, the conference represented one of the world’s most comprehensive forums for security policy exchange. Heads of State and Government, leaders of international organisations, senior policymakers, and representatives of civil society and think tanks engaged in both formal deliberations and informal dialogue. Germany’s role as host was further strengthened through the active involvement of its Federal Foreign Office, which organised numerous side events addressing critical issues such as defence, threats emanating from Russia, geo-economics, artificial intelligence, and research security.
The presence of senior members of the Federal Government highlighted Germany’s readiness to assume responsibility in safeguarding international stability. Alongside Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Defence Minister Boris Pistorius contributed to discussions that reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to preserving security, freedom, and prosperity through cooperation with allies and partners. In doing so, Germany reinforced its position as a reliable anchor of stability within Europe and beyond.
Substantively, the conference focused on pressing international challenges, including Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, the strengthening of NATO, transatlantic relations, and developments in the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific. Germany facilitated critical exchanges among key stakeholders, including meetings with a delegation from the US Congress and an informal gathering of the G7 Foreign Ministers, held in the context of the French G7 Presidency.
In addition, Germany used the Munich platform to advance dialogue with emerging partners and global powers. A panel discussion with India, featuring Foreign Minister Wadephul and his counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, exemplified Germany’s efforts to promote inclusive and forward-looking cooperation. Through hosting and active participation, Germany not only convened the international community but also shaped the discourse on navigating a world marked by disruption, reinforcing its role as a principled and engaged actor in global security governance.
