Global security threats – concepts and response

The global security landscape is dominated by complex threats such as international terrorism and organised crime, but also rapid development in conventional threats and economic warfare. How does this affect Norwegian interests? Moreover, how should Norway respond?

These were among the questions raised at a conference hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Oslo on 17 September 2014.

In his opening address Foreign Minister Brende pointed to a fast changing security landscape.  The world is facing a wide spectrum of globalised unconventional threats such as international terrorism, organised crime, cyber warfare and piracy. Hence, Norway will strengthen its efforts to counter such threats based on recommendations to be set out in an upcoming white paper.

“An already complex security landscape has been complicated further by transnational threats that are intertwined with the challenges of yesterday. This conference will give valuable insight into our global security challenges – and help us refine the tools we need to counter them’, said Mr. Brende.

The Minister of Defence, Ms. Ine Eriksen Søreide, underlined NATO’s role in the new security landscape. Due to recent development in conventional threats at Europe’s doorstep, NATO is yet again focusing on securing the alliance’s territory as well as remaining vigilant of transnational threats posed by terrorism and extremism. Reversing European defence spending cuts will be vital for NATO to remain the unquestionable guarantor of transatlantic security.

“Solving some of today’s most pressing challenges require concerted and multinational efforts. This is why Norway is investing, and will continue to invest in our NATO membership”, said Ms. Søreide.  

Among the international experts addressing the conference were Pierre Lapaque, UNODC Regional Representative for West and Central Africa, Karl Eikenberry, Stanford University, former US Security coordinator and ambassador to Afghanistan and Professor Thomas Hegghammer, The Norwegian Defence Research Establishment.

Watch the security conference here and learn more about

• The fight against organised crime in Africa
• European responses to the new security environment
• Wars of internal disorder
• Integrated strategies to addressing fragile states
• Radicalisation, foreign fighters and terrorism
• Cyber crime and cyber threats
• The financing of terror groups by environmental crime
• International responses to maritime crime outside Somalia and the emerging challenges in the Gulf of Guinea