European Security in Turbulent Times: Ukraine, NATO, the Baltic Region and the Role of Young Europeans

The German-Baltic Future Foundation, "Club 'The House'", YATA Latvia and European Latvian Youth Association invite you to a panel discussion on 2nd July at 6:00 PM titled "European Security in Turbulent Times: Ukraine, NATO, the Baltic Region and the Role of Young Europeans".

More than four years after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, Europe continues to face its most serious security challenge in decades. The war has reshaped the lives and expectations of an entire generation, raising important questions about security, resilience, civic responsibility, and the future of European cooperation.

As discussions about military service, defense preparedness, and European unity become increasingly relevant, young Europeans are being called upon to play a greater role in shaping the continent's future. Ukraine's resistance has demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience in defending not only its own sovereignty but also the principles of freedom, democracy, and international law upon which Europe is built.

The discussion will feature Dr. Klaus Wittmann, a German retired Brigadier General, historian, and publicist. Following 42 years of service in the Bundeswehr and military-political assignments at NATO Headquarters, he is now active as a lecturer and expert on security policy, contemporary history, and NATO strategy.

He will be joined by Nils Students, a Latvian-born American entrepreneur and member of the Latvian National Guard (Zemessardze), who has lived permanently in Latvia since 1991. In addition to his work at the U.S. Embassy in Latvia, he regularly visits schools in Latvia's border regions, where he engages students in discussions about the importance of the European Union, democratic values, and current political developments affecting Latvia and Europe.

Following the discussion, participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with the speakers on the challenges and opportunities facing Europe today.

We look forward to welcoming you to this timely and important conversation.

Programme:

17:30 — Registration and coffee

18:00 — Introduction

18:05 — Opening remarks by Dr. Klaus Wittmann

18:35 — Opening remarks by Nils Students

18:45 — Panel discussion

19:30 — Informal conversations and networking

Moderation: Visvaldis Bērziņš, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung

Event language: English

Venue: Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, Marijas iela 13 k-1, Rīga, LV-1050