Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset is set to highlight the importance of democratic security as global power shifts continue to reshape international relations at the Dubrovnik Forum in Croatia. The event, taking place on 26–27 June 2026, will focus on “The Age of Multipolarity: Many Directions, One Future” and bring together political leaders, policymakers and international experts to examine the challenges facing the global order. Berset’s message is expected to centre on strengthening democratic resilience, protecting institutions and ensuring security is built on the rule of law rather than only military power.
Why Is The Dubrovnik Forum Focusing On A Multipolar World?
The Dubrovnik Forum has become a key platform for discussions on European and international security, diplomacy and cooperation. The 2026 edition marks the forum’s 20th anniversary and comes at a time when governments are dealing with a more fragmented geopolitical environment.
The concept of a multipolar world reflects the growing influence of several global actors rather than a system dominated by a small number of major powers. Rising competition between states, ongoing conflicts, economic uncertainty and rapid technological changes have increased pressure on traditional international institutions.
For European policymakers, the challenge is finding ways to maintain stability while adapting to new global realities. The discussions in Dubrovnik are expected to explore how democracies can remain effective and secure in an increasingly complex international landscape.
What Will Alain Berset Say About Democratic Security?
Alain Berset is expected to promote the idea that democracy itself is a central part of security policy. As Secretary General of the Council of Europe, he has repeatedly argued that strong institutions, legal protections and public trust are essential foundations for long-term stability.
Berset has described democratic security as Europe’s response to an emerging world order where traditional assumptions about international cooperation are being tested. He has warned that countries face risks not only from external threats but also from internal pressures such as disinformation, weakened institutions and declining confidence in democratic systems.
His approach places emphasis on combining security measures with respect for human rights and the rule of law. Supporters of this view argue that military strength alone cannot guarantee lasting peace if democratic institutions become fragile.
How Are European Security Challenges Changing?
Europe’s security environment has been transformed by several major developments, including Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, concerns over foreign interference and debates about the future of international cooperation. Berset has pointed to these issues as examples of why democratic resilience must be treated as a security priority.
The Council of Europe has also focused on protecting democratic systems from threats such as misinformation and attacks on legal frameworks. Berset has argued that maintaining confidence in institutions is essential at a time when societies face rapid political and technological change.
Experts have increasingly highlighted that modern security challenges extend beyond traditional defence concerns. Cyber threats, artificial intelligence, economic pressure and information manipulation are becoming central issues for governments and international organisations.
What Issues Will Be Discussed At The Dubrovnik Forum?
The forum’s agenda is expected to include democratic security, support for Ukraine, accountability related to Russia’s aggression, democratic resilience and challenges affecting the Western Balkans.
Berset is also expected to hold discussions with senior Croatian officials, including Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman and parliamentary representatives. These meetings are likely to focus on regional stability and Europe’s response to wider geopolitical changes.
The Western Balkans remain an important issue for European policymakers because the region sits at the intersection of security, democratic development and European integration efforts. Stability in the area continues to be viewed as closely linked to wider European security.
Why Does Democratic Security Matter For Europe?
Democratic security has become a broader debate about how societies protect themselves while preserving political freedoms. Berset has argued that Europe must avoid a model where security is separated from democratic values and legal protections.
The debate comes as many democracies face pressure from polarisation, declining trust in institutions and the rapid spread of false information online. Governments are increasingly seeking policies that protect citizens while avoiding measures that could weaken democratic safeguards.
For the Council of Europe, the focus is on ensuring that security strategies support rather than undermine democratic principles. The organisation has positioned human rights, accountability and the rule of law as key elements of European stability.
What Could Happen After The Dubrovnik Forum?
The discussions at the Dubrovnik Forum are unlikely to produce immediate policy changes, but they could influence future European debates on security and democracy. As geopolitical competition continues, governments are expected to keep examining how institutions can respond to new threats.
Alain Berset’s focus on democratic security reflects a wider European effort to redefine security in the 21st century. The outcome of these discussions could shape how policymakers balance defence needs with democratic resilience, particularly as international alliances and global power structures continue to evolve.
The coming months will show whether European countries can translate these ideas into practical measures. With conflicts, technological disruption and political uncertainty continuing to challenge the international system, the debate over how democracies protect themselves is likely to remain a central issue for global leaders.
