East Netherlands as an essential and versatile link in the European defence chain

Threats are evolving more rapidly, and conflicts are becoming increasingly technological. Meanwhile, Europe’s dependence on non-European innovation and production capacity leaves it vulnerable. In the coming years, Europe must therefore not only invest more in defence but, above all, enable regions to innovate and produce together. The fact that East Netherlands is an indispensable region in this regard will become clear during the European Week of Regions and Cities (EWRC) in October 2026.