2024 German-Philippines Strategic Dialogue
The Germany-Philippines Strategic Dialogue, taking place from September 16-18, 2024, serves as a vital platform for deepening bilateral cooperation between the two nations, particularly in addressing emerging geopolitical and security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. Organized by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Philippines, in collaboration with the German Embassy, National Security Council (NSC), and National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP), this event brings together academics, specialists, and thought leaders to foster dialogue on security, economic resilience, and technological cooperation.
By involving both formal and informal exchanges on topics such as defense, foreign policy, maritime governance, and cybersecurity, the dialogue provides a unique opportunity to generate ideas that can later inform official government decisions. These discussions are key to building stronger and more forward-looking cooperation between Germany and the Philippines in addressing both regional and global challenges.
Key Themes of the Dialogue:
- Regional Security and Geopolitical Dynamics: As the Indo-Pacific becomes a central arena for global competition, especially with growing tensions in the South China Sea, this theme will focus on understanding how the rise of new regional powers is reshaping security strategies. Scholars and experts will explore the region's strategic significance for trade, security, and political influence, while emphasizing the importance of a rules-based international order.
- Cybersecurity and Technological Innovation: The rapid development of digital technologies presents both opportunities and challenges for national security. This theme highlights the cybersecurity vulnerabilities faced by both countries, as well as the potential for collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI) governance. Drawing from Germany’s AI Act and the Philippines' National Cybersecurity Plan, the dialogue will explore how both nations can enhance resilience and innovation while protecting civil liberties.
- Economic Cooperation and Value-Based Partnerships: Economic security plays a crucial role in regional stability. Discussions will focus on trade, foreign investment, and efforts to diversify economic relations, particularly by reducing dependencies on authoritarian states. The dialogue will explore how Germany can support the Philippines' economic ambitions, including the renewal of the EU-Philippines free trade agreement and boosting foreign direct investment (FDI).
- Maritime Governance and Environmental Sustainability: The intersection of maritime governance and environmental security will be a key focus, as both nations share a commitment to sustainable management of marine resources and combating climate change. Scholars will explore the development of a blue economy, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience, proposing cooperative strategies that ensure regional stability and support global environmental goals.
On 18 September 2024, two public lectures will be held simultaneously as part of the Germany-Philippines Strategic Dialogue, with one at Ateneo de Manila University and the other at the University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P). These events are open to all who are interested in engaging with key regional and global issues, providing an opportunity to hear from German and Filipino scholars and experts.
The public lectures are essential in bringing the public into the conversation, enriching the discussion with diverse perspectives. By involving the academe and the general public, these lectures ensure a broader understanding of complex regional issues and encourage more meaningful engagement with the pressing challenges facing the Indo-Pacific and Europe.
Regional Security in Asia and Implications for Europe
Date/Time: 18 September 2024 | 2:00-4:00pm
Alberto Hurtado Hall, SDC Complex, Ateneo de Manila University
“Nuclear proliferation, risks and strategic deterrence in the Asia-Pacific region” by Elisabeth Suh, Research Associate at Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP) (German Institute for Foreign and Security Affairs)
"Engagement with Human Rights and Rule of Law in Asia-Pacific Security Dynamics" by Henning Glaser, Founding Director of German-Southeast Asian Center of Excellence for Public Policy and Good Governance
“Germany's Indo-Pacific Strategy: Priorities, Challenges, and Strategic Dilemmas” by Dr. phil. Gudrun Wacker, Senior Fellow of Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP)
Reaction by ADM Rommel Jude G. Ong, Professor of Praxis at the Ateneo School of Government and Dr. Maria Alma Salvador, Professor of the Political Science Department at the Ateneo de Manila University
Germany’s View on Indo-Pacific Security
Date/Time: September 18, 2024 | 1:30-4:30pm
PLDT Hall, University of Asia and the Pacific
“Navigating New Frontiers: Germany's Evolving Security and Defense Policy Amidst Geostrategic Shifts and Sino-American Rivalry” by Dr. Felix Heiduk, Asia Research Division Head of Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP) (German Institute for International and Security Affairs)
"Manila’s Shift to External Defense: The Imperative of Peace in Mindanao" by Georgi Engelbrecht, Senior Analyst of International Crisis Group
“Germany-Philippines Collaboration in Tackling Disinformation” by Paula Köhler, Policy Advisor of Munich Security Conference
Reaction by Dr. Jeremy Gatdula, Dean of Institute of Law of the School of Social Sciences, Law, and Governance at the University of Asia and the Pacific
We are thrilled to be co-organizing this series of events with the Foundation for the National Interest. To ensure smooth entry to the university during the lectures, please send your name and contact number to info.ph(at)fes.de. We look forward to your participation. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to reach out to us.
Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung
Philippines
Unit 2804 Discovery Centre #25 ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center 1605 Pasig City, Metro Manila Philippines
info.ph(at)fes.de