Panel discussion in Bamberg: The future of the European Army!

Panel discussion in Bamberg: The future of the European Army!

The discussion about a common European defense policy is the focus of an upcoming panel discussion that will take place on October 29, 2025 at the Otto Friedrich University in Bamberg. Under the title “European Army – Vision or Illusion”, the organizers, the Young European Federalists (JEF) Bamberg, expect lively participation in the event, which begins at 7 p.m. in room F21/03.84. Admission is public and free, which opens the doors wide for interested citizens and press representatives.

The discussion will welcome prominent guests, including Captain Dhany Sahm, youth officer and consultant for security policy for the Bundeswehr, as well as Andreas Schwarz, member of the SPD Bundestag and former member of the “Bundeswehr Special Funds” committee. The open discussion session in the second half of the event will be particularly exciting, where the audience will have the opportunity to ask questions and exchange opinions.

EU defense policy in transition

The security situation in Europe has changed dramatically in recent years. Geopolitical tensions are increasing calls for a common defense policy. According to a survey, 77% of Europeans already support the idea of ​​a common defense and security policy Bernstein Group reported. Prominent voices like Emmanuel Macron are actively campaigning for the establishment of an EU army.

A crucial element in the current discussion is the EU Ammunition Production Support Act (ASAP), which came into force in July 2023 and aims to boost arms production within member states. This could pave the way for greater military cooperation in Europe.

New staff in the European Parliament

In the context of these developments, it is equally important to look at the new actors in the European Parliament. For example, the new MP Tobias Cremer (SPD) has formulated clear goals for defense policy and wants to develop the EU into a “real defense union”. Other relevant political voices include Alexandra Mehnert (CDU) and Hannah Neumann (Greens), who also advocate increased cooperation in the security sector and propose concrete strategies for arms export control.

These political efforts are a response to the current challenges and could make a decisive contribution to reshaping the European security area and developing common strategies. The panel discussion in Bamberg not only offers a platform for the exchange of ideas, but is also an opportunity to comprehensively discuss the topics raised and to develop possible solutions.

For further information about the event and the participants, visit the JEF Bamberg website.