The 61st Munich Security Conference (MSC) commenced in Germany running from February 14 to 16. Since its inception in 1963, this annual forum has become a key venue for discussing global security and strategic matters.
This year’s MSC coincides with significant global developments, including a new U.S. administration, the start of a new European legislative cycle, and Germany’s upcoming parliamentary elections.
The three-day event will address pressing security topics, focusing on areas such as global governance, climate challenges, regional conflicts, and the future of transatlantic partnerships, according to the Munich Security Conference.
Key Themes of Munich Security Conference 2025
1. Multipolarization
Ahead of the conference, the MSC released its annualMunich Security Conference Report titled “Multipolarization”. The report predicts a shift from the U.S.-dominated world order of the post-Cold War era to a multipolar system with no single dominant ideology.
The report notes that while the extent of today’s multipolarity can be debated, the movement toward a more fragmented global order is undeniable. Xiao Qian, deputy director of the Centre for International Security and Strategy at Tsinghua University, highlighted that this theme reflects a marked change in tone compared to past years.
In previous editions, topics such as “Unlearning Helplessness” in 2022, “Re:vision” in 2023, and “Lose-Lose?” in 2024, often revealed unease within Western nations. Xiao, who is attending Munich Security Conference 2025, said this year’s focus on multipolarity signals a shift toward more pragmatic analysis over emotional reactions.
The report also critiques some controversial decisions made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, including proposals to purchase Greenland, regain control of the Panama Canal, and even make Canada the 51st U.S. state. Additionally, policies like withdrawing the U.S. from the World Health Organization, the Paris Agreement, and the United Nations Human Rights Council have sparked widespread criticism.
The report describes the U.S. under Trump as less of a stabilizing influence and more of a challenge to be managed. MSC Chairman Christoph Heusgen stressed in the foreword that nations must reaffirm their commitment to the principles outlined in the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to preserve common ground amid increasing global divisions.
Survey respondents to the Munich Security Index consistently ranked preventing conflicts, avoiding new arms races, promoting inclusive growth, and tackling shared threats like climate change as top priorities for adapting to the shifting global landscape.
2. Transatlantic Relations
The future of transatlantic relations, a central topic since the Munich Security Conference ’s founding in 1963, will be a major focus again this year. Europe faces heightened concerns following the re-election of Donald Trump, with his administration signalling a departure from the post-Cold War foreign policy framework.
The MSC report notes that Trump’s presidency has “buried” the longstanding U.S. foreign policy consensus, shifting more defence responsibilities onto NATO allies in Europe. The choice of the word “buried” reflects Europe’s recognition of the changing role of the U.S. under Trump, according to Xiao Qian.
The report also outlines adjustments in U.S. policy, such as reduced security commitments to NATO and Ukraine, as well as diminished involvement in multilateral institutions. Within Europe, internal divisions and slowing economic growth are expected to worsen under these pressures.
Xiao observed that the U.S. is becoming increasingly selective in its international engagements, participating only when its narrowly defined interests are at stake.
In response, Europe has begun to emphasize unity and self-reliance. Christoph Heusgen recently called on European nations to strengthen their defences and uphold international rules, echoing former German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s 2017 statement: “We Europeans must take our destiny into our own hands.” This renewed focus on European strategic autonomy is gaining traction among political leaders and analysts.
3. Global South
As MSC chairman, Heusgen has aimed to ensure the conference better represents the realities of a multipolar world by inviting a broader range of voices. This year, around 30% of speakers will come from Global South nations.
The Munich Security Index 2025 shows that people in emerging economies like Brazil, India, South Africa, and China are generally more optimistic about the benefits of a multipolar world compared to respondents in G7 countries.
China, identifying itself as a member of the Global South, will play a prominent role at this year’s MSC. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is expected to present China’s views on building a shared future for humanity and fostering an equal, multipolar global system.
Jiang Feng, chairman of the Shanghai Academy of Global Governance and Area Studies, noted that the international community has high expectations for China’s role in shaping global governance, particularly as the world grapples with numerous crises and uncertainties.
Jiang pointed out that while the U.S. increasingly focuses on its own interests, and Europe struggles with internal challenges, many countries are looking to China for leadership in addressing shared global issues.
