Jens Stoltenberg: Navigating global security, crisis leadership, and staying calm under pressure
Oct 16, 2024
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Jens Stoltenberg, former Secretary General of NATO and Prime Minister of Norway, shares his extensive experience in global security. He discusses the complexities of the Ukraine conflict and emphasizes NATO's crucial role. Stoltenberg explores the weaponization of space and AI in warfare, raising concerns about military reliance on technology. He highlights the importance of collaboration between business and defense for national security, while reflecting on leadership styles and the need for compromise in geopolitics.
Jens Stoltenberg emphasizes the necessity for NATO's military and diplomatic collaboration to address unpredictable global security challenges like Ukraine and rising tensions with China.
The importance of engaging with private sectors for defense technology innovations is highlighted as crucial for maintaining NATO's technological edge against adversaries.
Deep dives
Growing Global Threats
The world has become increasingly dangerous, with a full-scale war in Europe and escalating conflicts in the Middle East marking significant shifts since the author's last book. Alongside rising tensions among great powers like the United States and China, threats from cyber warfare and terrorism have also become commonplace. This shifting landscape has made global security more unpredictable and complex, prompting a stronger NATO response to protect nearly one billion people. The emergence of these multifaceted threats underscores the necessity for strategic military and diplomatic collaboration among NATO allies.
Addressing the Ukraine Conflict
The Ukraine situation is marked by uncertainty, given that wars are inherently unpredictable. The most effective resolution, according to the author, is not through capitulation but rather by supporting Ukraine so it can preserve its sovereignty and democratic governance. By providing military support, NATO countries can elevate the costs for Russia, making an occupation less viable, thus encouraging negotiations for peace. Ultimately, Ukrainians must determine the sacrifices they are willing to make, but military strength remains crucial in shaping the negotiating dynamics.
China and Global Security Concerns
The author articulates growing concerns regarding China's aggressive military and geopolitical ambitions, particularly in relation to Russia's actions in Ukraine. While the narrative of China's economic rise was largely positive, recent behaviors—such as exerting control over the South China Sea and supporting Russia—have led to deepening wariness among Western nations. The relationship between China and Russia is increasingly viewed as a threat, particularly with China's involvement in supporting Russian warfare against Ukraine. Balancing engagement with China while safeguarding freedoms and security is deemed vital, with emphasis on reducing over-dependence on Chinese markets and technology.
Reassessing Defense Industry Collaboration
The evolving nature of warfare necessitates collaborative efforts between governments and private sectors to ensure military advancements, particularly in defense technology. With the existing reliance on private companies for innovations, NATO is committed to engaging with startups and venture capital firms that focus on defense technology. This shift is crucial to maintain a technological edge over adversaries such as China and Russia. The imperative to support a robust defense industry while avoiding political naivety in trade agreements underscores the need for strategic oversight and regulation in the evolving global landscape.
In this episode, we are honored to welcome Jens Stoltenberg, who recently concluded his tenure after ten years as Secretary General of NATO. He has had a long, impactful career within Norwegian politics, including serving as Prime Minister for a total of nine years. Jens shares his unique insights on global security challenges, the importance of strong alliances, and the evolving geopolitical landscape. From discussing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine to reflecting on how the world has shifted during his time at NATO, Jens offers thoughtful perspectives on leadership, decision-making, compromise, and his deep belief in the power of collaboration.
In Good Company is hosted by Nicolai Tangen, CEO of Norges Bank Investment Management. New full episodes every Wednesday, and don't miss our Highlight episodes every Friday.
The production team for this episode includes PLAN-B's Pål Huuse and Niklas Figenschau Johansen. Background research was conducted by Une Solheim.