Interview with Former Minister of Defence Fasslabend

Former Austrian Defence Minister Fasslabend discusses Austria’s evolving role in European defence and security, advocating for greater European self-reliance in regional stability. He underscores Austria’s unique position, shaped by neutrality and close ties to Central and Eastern Europe, emphasising support for peacekeeping and NATO’s Partnership for Peace. Fasslabend argues that while NATO remains essential for defence, Europe must independently address security in its neighbourhood, particularly in Africa, the Middle East, and the Balkans, to stabilise these regions amidst rising geopolitical challenges.