Perspectives on the Transformation of German Security Policy

~ German security should be deeply anchored in the transatlantic partnership, and in the EU. Our security is inseparably linked to the political development of Europe, the Atlantic alliance, and of the world.
–  H.E. Dr. Scharioth, German Ambassador to the USA

Regarding the White Paper, H.E. Dr. Scharioth said: “This is not just a paper of the Federal Ministry of Defense; this is the paper of the whole German Government.” The White Paper, a Federal Ministry of Defense publication, represents a significant step forward for German foreign and security policy in light of the drastic changes in the international environment since the end of the Cold War. As Ambassador Scharioth pointed out in his initial comments, the key point of the White Paper lies in redefining security in a broader sense. Ambassador Scharioth said that international stability is possible only through a joint, multilateral effort. Germany is committed to ensure global security particularly through European integration and transatlantic partnership. He also noted that security goes far beyond armed forces, and includes a broad spectrum of political, economic, and social dimensions.

The White Paper describes a world, and charts a course for German security policy and the Bundeswehr, in which Germany will play an increasing role abroad supporting friends and allies, as well as preventing and containing crises and conflicts that could, if left unchecked, threaten the well-being and interests of Germany, Europe, and the transatlantic community. Furthermore, the White Paper strongly reaffirms Germany’s commitment to international organizations such as the UN, the OSCE, NATO, and the EU. In many ways, it continues Germany’s increasing global engagement that began in the mid-1990’s. “In 1994 there was not a single German soldier outside the NATO area…We have come a long way since then. Now Germany is the second largest contributor of troops for peacekeeping. And this has happened in just 12 years,” Dr. Scharioth explained during his speech.

Based on this world view, the White Paper describes the transformation of the Bundeswehr towards a deployable and sustainable force with significantly more robust mobility, C4ISR, and engagement capabilities than today.