Ep. 14
This episode provides a deep dive into the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP), a major player in German and European foreign policy since its founding in 1955. The speakers explore how DGAP has evolved over almost 70 years, playing an active role in tackling global issues such as climate change, defense, and digitization, among others. DGAP is notable for its impressive roster of experts, member-only events, and exclusive closed-door discussions that bring policymakers together to engage in frank, strategic conversations away from the public eye.
Key takeaways include DGAP’s dedication to research, action, and fostering a deeper understanding of complex global challenges through a wide range of perspectives. The organization’s work includes hosting over 150 events a year, publishing its own journal International Politic Quarterly, and organizing study trips to areas like Georgia and Moldova. These activities highlight DGAP’s commitment to bridging the gap between theory and practice, helping policymakers make informed decisions.
The conversation also touches on DGAP’s influence in rethinking European defense, particularly its efforts to address the historical tensions between France and Germany and the challenges of creating a more unified European defense industry. DGAP’s work serves as a wake-up call for European leaders, urging them to face uncomfortable truths and step up their game in dealing with global security threats.
The speakers are impressed by DGAP’s approach to knowledge sharing, emphasizing that DGAP creates a platform for nuanced, joined-up thinking on issues that can’t be separated into neat boxes. Ultimately, DGAP is portrayed as an essential organization for anyone wanting to go beyond the headlines and gain a deeper understanding of international relations and foreign policy.
https://dgap.org https://ip-quarterly.com/en https://internationalepolitik.de/de