Security

In an interconnected world, we need a new understanding of security – one that incorporates and brings together all stakeholders.  

Rethinking  security  

Germany has developed its first interministerial National Security Strategy. This introduces the ‘policy of Integrated Security’ as a mandatory guiding principle and bridges the traditional divide between internal and external security. Integrated Security succeeds when various actors from from different policy fields pool their tools and resources. International cooperation is therefore becoming a keystone for the security of Germany and Europe. 

Understanding  global challenges

The world has become more unstable. Conflicts are on the rise and geopolitical tensions are worsening. In many regions, stability and development are directly related to security issues and political order. 

Our cooperation is therefore becoming more active and more strategic. We must be mindful of European security interests while simultaneously enhancing the stability and resilience of our partner countries. 

In doing so, we remain flexible and combine different areas – for instance climate and security. This makes us a reliable partner, even in times of change. 

Our understanding of security 

For us, security means: We support security sector actors  in making their work more effective, gaining the trust of the population and providing transparent justification for their decisions. This makes people's lives safer – whether in border areas, state peripheries or big cities. 

Our understanding of security is shaped by the concept of human security. At its core, it is about ensuring that all people can live free from fear, hardship and oppression. Human rights and equality are the foundations of our work. 

What we do

Our holistic approach combines expertise and dialogue with practical support – from training and financing all the way through to infrastructure projects. Depending on our partners' situation, we work in the following core areas:  

• Strengthening institutional structures for security sector reform
• Setting up and reforming police forces
• Combating transnational organised crime and extremism
• Improving border management
• Promoting disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration and controlling means of violence
• Supporting regional peace and security structures
• Developing military capabilities
• Defending against and mitigating digital and hybrid threats