Lecture and discussion: "Security - for Europe"

On 21 September, participants can look forward to a fascinating talk by Prof. Dr Patrick Sensburg, followed by a panel discussion on the future of Europe in times of international tensions. The event will take place at the Europa-Haus Bocholt from 7 pm; registration is by email.

Europe's future security does not depend solely on military responses, but also on how Europe is to be shaped and the extent to which its citizens are willing to share in the common European responsibility. The event will focus on where Europe must act collectively - for example, in the areas of defence, security and migration - and where greater account should be taken of national or regional particularities.

Follow-up discussion

The debate will also focus on challenges such as international tensions and new threat scenarios, as well as criticism of European regulations that are perceived as overly bureaucratic or that neglect local circumstances. The question of whether we need more Europe or a different Europe will be discussed, as will Europe's role in defence - including within the framework of NATO - and how Europe can strike a balance between collective responsibility and regional autonomy.

The organisers emphasise that the event is not just about listening, but about active discussion: what expectations do citizens have of Europe? What can Europe achieve? And how can we shape a Europe that provides security without burdening its citizens with ever-increasing bureaucracy?

About the speaker

As a lawyer, university lecturer, reserve colonel and former president of the Reservists' Association, Sensburg brings a wealth of experience from the worlds of politics, society and security policy. Since 2025, he has been chairman of the Europa-Union NRW and vice-president of the Europa-Union Deutschland.

Registration and attendance

The event will take place on 21 September 2026 from 7.00 pm as a lecture followed by an open discussion at the Europa-Haus Bocholt, Adenauerallee 59. Registrations are being accepted by the Europa-Union via email at eu-anmeldung(at)gmx(dot)de.

About EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt

EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt is part of the Office of the Mayor and the Executive Board of the City of Bocholt and serves as the local point of contact for questions relating to the European Union. Its role is to provide local residents with information, advice, assistance and answers to questions about Europe. Furthermore, EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt aims to promote engagement with European affairs and to provide information on current developments in European politics.