Czechia steps up presence at Munich Security Conference with three top representatives

The annual gathering of world leaders in Bavaria comes at a moment of growing geopolitical tension and shifting alliances. European leaders are increasingly debating defence autonomy and technological competitiveness. Czech representatives will join discussions expected to shape security policy in the years ahead.

Jaromír Zůna|Photo: Zuzana Jarolímková, iROZHLAS.cz

Czechia will have an unusually strong presence at this year’s Munich Security Conference, one of the world’s most influential forums on global security and foreign policy. President Petr Pavel will attend alongside Foreign Minister Petr Macinka and Defence Minister Jaromír Zůna, signalling the importance Prague attaches to security issues in a rapidly changing world.

The conference brings together dozens of heads of state, ministers, diplomats and security experts for discussions ranging from the war in Ukraine to the future of the transatlantic alliance.

Photo: Zuzana Jarolímková, iROZHLAS.cz

President Pavel is expected to speak in the main programme on the rise of populism. According to political scientist and presidential adviser Jiří Pehe, the president considers the phenomenon a genuine security issue. Populist movements, Pehe says, are increasingly questioning key principles of Western policy, including support for Ukraine.

Behind the scenes diplomacy

While public speeches dominate headlines, much of the real work happens in smaller meetings and informal talks. That is the view of Czech diplomat Veronika Stromšíková, who spoke to Czech Radio while travelling to Munich.

She noted that the official programme is only part of the story and that bilateral meetings on the sidelines often play a decisive role. Ministers and diplomats use the opportunity to hold a dense schedule of talks that may shape cooperation long after the conference ends.

Veronika Stromšíková|Photo: Kateřina Cibulka, Czech Radio

Stromšíková also highlighted a panel she plans to follow closely. The discussion, titled West against West, will explore what remains of shared Western values at a time of political divisions. Among the speakers will be Hillary Clinton and Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski.

Despite tensions, Stromšíková remains convinced that the transatlantic community retains strong foundations and continues to represent a space of freedom and prosperity.

Europe and the question of strategic autonomy

The conference is also expected to reflect growing debate about Europe’s ability to defend itself. Security experts increasingly ask whether the continent could manage without American support.

NATO security training in Latvia|Photo: Profimedia

Former Slovak NATO representative Pavel Macko argues that Europe still lacks crucial capabilities. He points to gaps in intelligence, strategic transport and long-range strike capabilities — areas where European countries remain heavily dependent on the United States.

These concerns are closely linked to wider debates about Europe’s competitiveness and technological independence. According to Stromšíková, economic strength and security are now deeply interconnected. Without a strong technological base, she says, Europe cannot ensure its own security or autonomy.

Technology, energy and security

Energy, raw materials and technology are increasingly viewed as part of the security agenda. European leaders are discussing how to reduce dependence on external suppliers while strengthening domestic industry and innovation.

Petr Pavel|Photo: Tomáš Fongus, Office of the President of the Republic

The Munich Security Conference has often served as a barometer of global tensions. This year’s meeting is expected to reflect a world marked by geopolitical rivalry, technological competition and political change.

With President Pavel addressing populism and Czech ministers taking part in high-level meetings, Prague’s delegation arrives in Munich with a clear message: security policy is now at the heart of European politics.