Next Generation Security: IE and Airbus launch new research

In the context of escalating geopolitical tensions, the understanding of the European youth's (mis)perceptions of the security and defense landscape and its future becomes paramount. To address it, we are launching Next Generation Security, a program aimed at bridging knowledge gaps and emphasizing the critical role of defense in safeguarding liberal and democratic societies. 

The official kick off of the program took place at the IE Tower with the teams and researchers of the Center for the Governance of Change, representatives from Airbus Security and Defence, members of the program’s advisory board and Metroscopia. Participants discussed issues such as the perceived relationship between defense and democracy, sustainability, access to basic services, as well as the motives behind the current gender gap in the sector. 

As part of the program, our researchers will conduct a survey involving 3,600 respondents aged 16 to 34 in Spain, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Following this, four focus groups will be held in these countries. The findings will inform a diagnostics report to be published in July 2024, serving as the foundation for targeted actions in the project's next phase.

Manuel Muñiz, Chair of the Center for the Governance of Change and Provost of IE University, highlighted the program's importance within the context of ongoing geopolitical competition among major powers. Additionally, he discussed the evolving dynamics of the defense sector at a time where emerging technologies are reshaping traditional paradigms.

Irene Blázquez Navarro, Director of the center, further emphasized the centrality of citizens, particularly young citizens, in shaping our understanding of security and defense in the 21st century, reiterating the importance of factual knowledge of their opinions and beliefs.

Johannes Müller, Head of Communications and Head of Environment, Social and Governance at Airbus Security and Defence, stressed the importance of better understanding the views of the European youth. He stated that "Europe needs young talent to remain competitive in the current geopolitical and technological landscape, and more importantly, to challenge conventional thinking and introduce fresh ideas on the way we do defense".

Ambassador Sorin Ducaru, Director of the European Union Satellite Centre (SatCen) and member of the project’s advisory board, underscored the importance of garnering support for EU membership among the youth to foster a cohesive defense culture in the continent.

The research program will be implemented through 2 phases:

• Phase I: Diagnosis and analysis, running from March to August 2024.
• Phase II: Targeted actions, running from September 2024 to February 2026. 

Learn more about the program here.