Michèle Flournoy began her speech by highlighting the shift in perspective that has occurred in current defense policy, as the focus was previously on terrorism and is now directed towards China. Primarily, Flournoy spoke of a sense of urgency regarding China and the need for the United States to improve in order to compete with it. As a result, risks and increased defense investment are key elements to achieving this goal, with an emphasis on technologies, mathematics, and sciences.

On the other hand, the new defense policy is based on improving transatlantic relations, as well as creating a more inclusive and diverse working environment. Flournoy emphasized the importance of having leaders who can properly represent the population they defend. This is why the United States is focusing on presenting itself as a reliable country, where its allies feel they can trust.

Additionally, areas related to climate change and energy insufficiency have also been incorporated as aspects to improve regarding defense.

At the end of the session, a debate took place, during which participants asked questions related to the effects of the pandemic on U.S. security, as well as the implications of the withdrawal from Afghanistan. Questions also arose regarding Iran and Israel and their nuclear aspirations in the military context.

María Archilla
Communication Assistant, INCIPE