The global order has changed dramatically over the past decade. Some of these changes have been disruptive, such as Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine or the escalation of violence in the Middle East. Other changes have taken place more gradually and outside of the spotlight of public attention, such as the quantitative decline of liberal democracies, the parallel increase in autocratic regimes, and the intensifying geopolitical tensions and rivalries between the United States, China, and Russia. At the same time, the international community is under ever-greater pressure to tackle challenges such as climate change, global health crises, and ongoing migration movements, which are placing heavy demands on countries on both sides of the Atlantic and triggering a transformation of national party systems. With Donald Trump serving a second term as president, the United States’ role in the world and as a partner for Europe must be reassessed after a long period of relative stability. In the current geopolitical climate, Europe in particular has a duty to ensure security and stability—in close cooperation with the US, but also with a clear understanding of its own interests and values. The question of how transatlantic relations are changing amidst great power competition and global responsibility is more important than ever and shapes the political debates and decisions of our time. In this context, we will examine the future of international cooperation and the challenges and opportunities that Europe faces in this dynamically changing world order.

The Ruhr region in Germany and the so-called Rust Belt in the United States have undergone profound transformations in recent decades. Both regions, long defined by coal, steel, and heavy industry, have experienced the economic, social, and political consequences of deindustrialization. Yet despite structural similarities, the paths they have taken in responding to these changes differ—and offer important lessons for each other. Which economic and political strategies have been pursued in response to the challenges posed by industrial decline? To what extent have these measures succeeded in ensuring economic security and social stability—and where have they fallen short? How have processes of regional transformation influenced public trust in democratic institutions and party preferences among working class voters? What can both regions learn from one another to create viable futures for their populations and lay the groundwork for long-term prosperity?

Western media often describe the relationship between Russia and China as a close friendship between two ‘autocracies’ against the ‘Western community of values’. Xi and Putin speak of a ‘comprehensive strategic partnership’ that aims to establish a ‘multipolar world order’. But who should be the poles in a post-American world order? Is there a threat of a new ‘Cold War’ with global bloc formation? How stable is the alliance between Moscow and Beijing really?

At a time of growing geopolitical tensions, protectionism is experiencing a global renaissance. Numerous countries are threatening each other with punitive tariffs and trade restrictions. Aggressive economic policies are putting increasing pressure on global trade relations. In these geopolitical areas of tension, questions of sustainability and global justice are falling by the wayside.