On 14 October, Helsinki España held the conference “Challenges and Threats to International Security 2025” at the Spanish Centre for National Defence Studies (CESEDEN), thanks to the support of the Spanish Ministry of Defence and in collaboration with CESEDEN. The event served as a space for analysis, dialogue, and reflection on the key challenges facing global and national security in an increasingly complex geopolitical context.
The conference brought together over one hundred participants, including academics, students, and professionals from the fields of security and defence. Its main objective was to engage society—particularly younger generations—in understanding and addressing contemporary security challenges, including disinformation and ethical leadership in times of uncertainty.
These annual conferences, organised by Helsinki España, aim to foster critical thinking and multidisciplinary discussion around the global threats of the 21st century. In a world shaped by geopolitical crises, regional conflicts, cyber threats, and environmental challenges, promoting joint reflection among the academic, military, and civil sectors is essential to building a more informed, resilient, and human approach to international security.
Key Speakers and Presentations
The session opened with remarks from Colonel José Luis Calvo Albero (CESEDEN) and Ms. María Jaén (Helsinki España), who highlighted the human dimension of security and the importance of institutional cooperation to strengthen social resilience.
🔹 Dr. Gracia Abad Quintanal (Universidad Nebrija) provided an insightful overview of international tensions and conflicts, addressing lesser-known crises and the rise of hybrid warfare.
🔹 Colonel Juan C. Castilla (CESEDEN) presented the Spanish perspective on international conflicts, emphasising Spain’s role and responsibility as a member of NATO and the European Union.
🔹 Ms. Carmen Jordá Sanz (Universidad Camilo José Cela) discussed the impact of disinformation on democracies, stressing the need for a critical and ethical approach to information control and dissemination.
🔹 Lieutenant Colonel Fernando Rojas Caja (CESEDEN) explored the theme of leadership in times of uncertainty, underscoring the relevance of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills as essential tools for effective leadership in crisis situations.
🔹 Mr. Christian Ricós Sevilla, an expert on radicalisation and terrorism, examined terrorism and extremism, challenging the myth of a “terrorist personality” and analysing the religious symbolism and motivations underpinning radical movements.
🔹 Finally, Mr. José Antonio Álvarez Crespo and Mr. Ricardo González Ruiz, directors of the project Consenso Victoria, underlined the importance of coordination among security forces and the need for public training to respond effectively to emergencies. The event concluded with the screening of the documentary “Consenso Victoria”, which showcased best practices in the management of critical incidents.
Helsinki España extends its sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Defence for its financial support and to CESEDEN for its collaboration and hospitality. Their commitment made this event possible and reinforced our shared mission to promote education, cooperation, and the development of a more secure, informed, and resilient society.
