European security in an age of rupture

In a context of intensifying global rivalry, war on Europe’s borders, and growing economic and technological pressures, European security has become a defining challenge for the Union. Drawing on her large expertise in EU foreign and security policy, Nathalie Tocci reflects on how the European Union is adapting to a world increasingly shaped by power politics.

Moving beyond a narrow focus on defense, she frames security as a broader question of strategic resilience, encompassing energy, technology, supply chains, and the protection of democratic institutions.

The lecture revisits the fundamental choice facing Europe—whether to shape its own security environment or be shaped by others.

While the EU has the resources and instruments to act, it remains constrained by internal divisions and incomplete integration. Strengthening European security requires not only greater capacity, but also political will: the ability to align power with purpose and redefine the EU as a more coherent and credible global actor.

8:30 am Registration of participants 8:45 am Institutional Remarks Francesco Billari Rector, Bocconi University Andrea Boroli Vice President, Fondazione Achille e Giulia Boroli Keynote Speech Nathalie Tocci Professor, John Hopkins SAIS Europe and Board Member, Institute of European Policymaking, Bocconi University Q&A moderated by Carlo Altomonte Associate Professor of Economics of European Integration, Achille and Giulia Boroli Chair in European Studies, Bocconi University Civica Capstone Project Competition – Boroli Awards Francesco Saita Dean for International Affairs, Bocconi University Closing Remarks Gianmarco Ottaviano Full Professor of Economics, Achille and Giulia Boroli Chair in European Studies, Bocconi University