NATO is entering one of the most significant periods of change in its history. Shifting American priorities, changes in global military deployments and growing uncertainty about long-term US commitments to European security have raised new questions about the future of the alliance. This course examines whether NATO can become more European-led and what such a transformation might look like. Participants will explore the strategic challenges facing the alliance, the capabilities and limitations of European member states, and the implications for global security and international relations. Looking ahead to NATO's 80th anniversary in 2029, the course considers whether Europe can assume greater leadership while maintaining alliance unity and credibility. Suitable for anyone interested in geopolitics, defence and current affairs.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE RESOURCES

• https://ecfr.eu/article/look-what-you-made-us-do-how-to-realise-a-european-led-nato/
• https://www.lowyinstitute.org/external-publications/trump-greenland-and-the-end-of-nato
• https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-06-18/pete-hegseth-lashes-out-at-nato-members/106815756
• https://www.nato.int/e
• https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/saturdayextra/a-foreign-affai/13955140
• https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/am/us-offers-assurances-on-nato/106348210
• https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/rearvision/rear-vision-nato-european-security-european-army-defence-us-eu/106716670
• https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/radionational-breakfast/us-nato-troops/106708834
• https://www.nato.int/en/what-we-do/partnerships-and-cooperation/relations-with-australia 

COURSE OUTLINE

• What are the recent events that have shaken NATO?
• Who are the key players leading the Europeanisation discussion?
• What will it take to keep NATO credible and united?
• How have NATO members dealt with previous challenges?
• What are the implications for Australia, the Pacific region and globally?
• What are the possible scenarios for NATO come its 80th anniversary in 2029? 

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

• Appreciate the recent geopolitical events impacting NATO
• Understand NATO's purpose, role and history
• Identify the characteristics of a credible and united NATO
• Reflect on the way NATO members dealt with previous challenges to the alliance
• Appreciate the implications for Australia, the Pacific region and globally
• Consider the possible scenarios for NATO come its 80th anniversary in 2029