From 10 to 12 April 2026, members of YATA Germany travelled to Oslo to participate in the 21st Nordic Security Conference (NorSec 2026), hosted by YATA Norway. One of the most established events in the YATA calendar, NorSec annually brings together students, cadets, and young professionals from across Europe and beyond for in-depth dialogue on foreign, security, and defence policy.
About NorSec
NorSec is YATA Norway’s flagship conference and a cornerstone of the broader YATA network. Each year, it provides a platform for the next generation of security professionals to engage with cutting-edge debates, connect with peers and experts, and develop a deeper understanding of the challenges shaping today’s international security environment.
This year’s edition was held under the theme:
»Preparing for Insecurity in a More Fragmented World«
The theme reflected the growing complexity and urgency of current global security dynamics – from geopolitical shifts and great power competition to the erosion of multilateral frameworks and the rapid evolution of conflict.
A Platform for Dialogue and Exchange
NorSec 2026 brought together more than 150 participants from over 20 countries, creating a rich and diverse environment for cross-border exchange and collaboration.
The conference opened on Friday, 10 April, with introductory sessions and networking opportunities, allowing participants to establish connections and set the stage for the discussions ahead.
The core programme on Saturday and Sunday featured a series of high-level keynote addresses and expert panel discussions, all centered on key developments and emerging challenges in international security.
Key Topics and Discussions
Across the two main conference days, sessions explored a broad range of critical issues, including:
- Evolving global power structures and the dynamics of geopolitical competition in a multipolar world
- Challenges to international cooperation amid growing fragmentation and institutional strain
- The implications of Russia’s war against Ukraine for European security architecture and transatlantic relations
- The role of emerging actors and technologies – including AI, cyber capabilities, and non-state actors – in reshaping security policy
Taken together, the discussions underscored the importance of sustained multilateral dialogue and the need for adaptive, forward-looking approaches to an increasingly complex security landscape.
Strengthening the YATA Network
Beyond the formal programme, NorSec 2026 provided an important opportunity to build community within the international YATA network. Social events and informal exchanges gave participants from different national chapters the opportunity to share their views, build lasting relationships, and foster the collaborative spirit that defines the YATA community.
For YATA Germany, the conference was a valuable opportunity to deepen existing ties and build new connections with peers from across Europe and beyond.
Looking Ahead
YATA Germany would like to express its sincere gratitude to YATA Norway for organising such an intellectually stimulating and exceptionally well-executed conference. The insights gained and connections established during NorSec 2026 will continue to inform our work and engagement in the field of international security.
We look forward to continuing the conversations and contributing to future discussions within the YATA network and the wider security policy community.
Nicole Schilling
Michael Simon
