The 61st Munich Security Conference (MSC) is set to take place in Germany from February 14 to 16, continuing its legacy as a pivotal forum for international security and strategic discussions since its inception in 1963.
Amid a backdrop of shifting global dynamics, including a new U.S. administration, a fresh European legislative cycle, and upcoming German parliamentary elections, this year’s MSC promises to address pressing global security challenges.
1. Multipolarization
The MSC has unveiled its annual Munich Security Report titled \"Multipolarization,\" highlighting a significant transition from a U.S.-dominated international order to a more balanced, multipolar world. The report emphasizes that while the extent of multipolarity is debated, its presence is undeniable.
Xiao Qian, deputy director of the Center for International Security and Strategy at Tsinghua University, noted that the focus on multipolarization signifies a shift towards a more pragmatic and balanced understanding of global affairs.
The report also critiques recent U.S. policies under President Donald Trump, including controversial proposals and withdrawals from international organizations, portraying Washington as a potential risk rather than a stability anchor.
2. Transatlantic Relations
The future of transatlantic relations remains a central theme at MSC 2025. The Munich Security Report suggests that the Trump administration's policies have strained the U.S.-Europe partnership, leading Europe to seek greater strategic autonomy and increased defense investments.
Christoph Heusgen, chairman of the MSC, emphasized the need for Europe to uphold the rules-based international order and address internal challenges independently of U.S. support. This sentiment echoes former German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s call for Europe to take control of its own destiny.
3. Global South
Reflecting the theme of multipolarization, the MSC is prioritizing voices from the Global South, with around 30 percent of this year’s speakers hailing from these regions. The Munich Security Index 2025 indicates that emerging economies are more optimistic about a multipolar world compared to respondents from G7 countries.
China’s Foreign Ministry official Wang Yi will attend the conference to discuss China’s role in building a community with a shared future for mankind and promoting an equal and orderly multipolar world. Experts like Jiang Feng highlight the international community’s anticipation of China’s contributions to global governance amidst a complex and evolving global landscape.
As the world grapples with unprecedented instabilities and transformations, the 61st Munich Security Conference stands as a crucial platform for shaping the future of global security and governance.
