At a time marked by disruptive developments and the emergence of innovative technologies, all of which have a profound impact on the global security architecture, the event will explore how international security can be maintained and improved in the face of these changes. The GSIS will address this broad topic and develop answers for an increasingly interconnected world.
"Technology and innovation are both a challenge and an opportunity for security establishments around the globe. The increasing speed of change requires an open, interdisciplinary dialogue. By establishing the GSIS, we are creating a platform for political, business and technology stakeholders to exchange views and ideas, and bring new solutions to the table," said Dr Bastian Giegerich, Director-General and Chief Executive of IISS.
Heiko M. Stutzinger, CEO of Hamburg Messe und Congress, added: “Geopolitical developments in recent years have shown that Europe's North is steadily gaining in strategic importance. By hosting the GSIS in Hamburg, we are closing a geographical gap in the event landscape focused on security."
The new format will be a multifaceted conference combined with an accompanying exhibition presenting current approaches and innovative solutions related to security policy. The partnership brings together the security and defence policy expertise of IISS and the event management capabilities of Hamburg Messe und Congress.
"Hamburg was purposely chosen as the site for the GSIS because the city provides ideal conditions due to its location, economic importance and dynamic innovative strength. Situated centrally in the heart of Europe, Hamburg interlinks Western Europe, the Nordic countries and the Baltic area, providing a natural platform for an open dialogue between international stakeholders," explained Giegerich.
As an important part of the preparations for the GSIS, an international listening tour will begin in the upcoming weeks. Stakeholders covering a wide range of expertise will be included in the development of the event concept. The aim is for the GSIS agenda to be responsive to different regional perspectives and specific needs. "The listening tour is a key element to make the Global Security and Innovation Summita platform that merges global thinking with regional perspectives," stressed Stutzinger.
In addition to the conference and accompanying exhibition, the GSIS will incorporate a range of innovative formats to encourage a continuous dialogue. Additional supporting events are being scheduled at selected global IISS sites throughout the year, complemented by a year-round offer of digital platforms and services. Further announcements about the agenda will be made closer to the event.
For more information about GSIS, visit the official website GSIS-Hamburg.com and follow our LinkedIn account for regular updates and exclusive insights.
About the International Institute for Strategic Studies:
A defence and security think tank that has deep understanding of regional geopolitics and geo-economics in a global context. Independent, impartial analysis by best-in-class international researchers – resident in the Americas, the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia – who provide insights on strategic challenges and priorities and offer policy-relevant analysis to governments and the private sector. Expert at bringing together national leaders and senior policymakers in foreign policy, defence and security; promoting dialogue; and facilitating effective and influential bilateral and multilateral consultations. It is widely known around the world for its authoritative research, influential publications and products, such as The Military Balance and Military Balance+. The Institute is also the convenor of major summits, including the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue (The Asian Regional Security Summit), the IISS Manama Dialogue (The Middle East Regional Security Summit) and the IISS Prague Defence Summit.
About Hamburg Messe und Congress:
Located in Germany's second largest city, Hamburg Messe und Congress (HMC) organises, supports and enables a wide range of major national and international events year after year: Top-ranking industry fairs, world-leading congresses, political party conventions, annual general meetings, cultural and sport events all find the right venue at HMC. Situated between the University and the famous Reeperbahn district, surrounded by a vibrant inner city and extensive parks, the eleven halls of the Hamburg trade fair campus offer more than 87,000 square metres of exhibition space. Just a few metres away, the CCH – Congress Center Hamburg provides up to 50 event spaces and halls. The topic of global security has had a permanent place in the portfolio of HMC for over six decades. In particular, security and defence as well as dual-use products have been high on the agenda of SMM, the world’s foremost maritime trade fair. Furthermore, the International Conference on Maritime Security and Defence (MS&D) is a major congress taking place in Hamburg every two years.
