In recent years, the world has experienced a convergence of extreme weather events, food and energy crises, and global competition for critical resources, all highlighting the profound security implications posed by climate change. The international nature of these challenges necessitates enhanced cooperation among global actors (both public sector and private sector) to find effective and long-lasting solutions.

In the face of these challenges, the Bertelsmann Stiftung, in collaboration with the German Foreign Office and U.S. Department of State, has curated a panel discussion featuring U.S. and German experts working at the nexus of climate and security affairs. The panel will engage in a wideranging dialogue, addressing key issues such as the intricate links between climate change and security threats, exploring effective policy responses, examining technological innovations, and fostering discussions on cooperation and partnerships to build a resilient future.

The panel will address the following key issues:
• How does the international community assess the current and future security risks associated with climate change, and what are the key areas of concern?
• In what ways can national and international policies be strengthened to address the security implications of climate change?
• What role do technological innovations play in monitoring, adapting to, and preventing security challenges arising from climate-related events?
• How can subnational actors and national governments collaborate to build resilience and mitigate the impact of climate-induced security risks?
• How can businesses contribute to climate security efforts, and what incentives or initiatives can be put in place to encourage sustainable practices?

Opening Remarks:
Dr. Meike Zwingenberger, CEO Amerikahaus–Bavarian Center for Transatlantic Relations
Dr. Daniela Schwarzer, Executive Board Member, Bertelsmann Stiftung
Kate Guy, Managing Director for Climate Security and Cross Cutting Issues, Office of the U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, U.S. Department of State

Keynote Speaker:
Sarah Ladislaw, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Climate and Energy, National Security Council, The White House

Panelists:
Iris A. Ferguson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Arctic and Global Resilience, U.S. Department of Defense
Katarina Kertysova, Policy Officer, Climate and Energy Security, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
David Miliband, President and CEO, International Rescue Committee
Dr. Kira Vinke, Head of the Center for Climate and Foreign Policy, German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP)
Janani Vivekananda, Head of Programme Climate Diplomacy and Security, Adelphi Consulting
TBD German MOD or MFA representation

Moderator:
Cathryn Clüver Ashbrook, Senior Advisor, Bertelsmann Stiftung

Photo: © NASA / unsplash.com