EU CBRN CoE marks 15 years with forward-looking anniversary conference in Brussels

The EU CBRN Risk Mitigation Centres of Excellence is marking a major milestone in 2025: 15 years of advancing international cooperation to counter chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) risks. To honour this occasion, more than 100 participants from 63 Partner Countries, EU institutions, the United Nations, and key international partners gathered in Brussels for the Initiative’s 10th International National Focal Points (NFP) meeting.

Hosted at the historic Egmont Palace, the two-day conference was a fitting tribute to the journey of the EU CBRN CoE Initiative. But it was also a launchpad for what comes next.

A look back and a leap forward

Reflecting the spirit of the recently published 15-year anniversary booklet, the conference combined commemoration with clear-eyed planning for the future. Participants explored the Initiative’s evolution from a strategic vision in 2010 to today’s world-leading platform for voluntary CBRN cooperation, spanning eight regions and over 100 implemented projects.

In her opening remarks, Maria Rosa Sabbatelli, Head of FPI’s Unit for Global and Transregional Threats and Challenges, defined the CoE network as “a platform for trust-building, knowledge sharing, but also strategic dialogue at both regional and global level.”

Other speakers — including representatives from UNICRI, EEAS, JRC, and regional secretariats — praised the Initiative’s results and relevance in the face of rapidly evolving global risks. “From synthetic biology to AI-assisted proliferation, we are entering a new era of challenges,” said Maciej Stadejek from the European External Action Service, emphasising the Initiative’s importance as both a technical and diplomatic tool.

Highlighting regional leadership and collective action

Panel discussions gave the floor to National Focal Points from across the network, who shared progress made in inter-agency coordination, National Action Plans and joint capacity building. The signing of the Middle East Regional Action Plan (RAP) underscored the value of collaborative planning in addressing transboundary risks, especially in light of shared experiences such as the Beirut port explosion.

Participants were also invited on a “walk through history”, an interactive exhibition showcasing 15 years of impactful projects. From enhancing medical response and early disease detection to preventing the smuggling of radioactive materials, the display brought to life how the CoE network has translated strategy into action and resilience on the ground.

Forward-looking dialogues: AI, space, strategic trade and more

The second day turned fully to the future. In a vibrant world café session, participants discussed emerging priorities including artificial intelligence, public-private partnerships and knowledge management. Across the board, there was consensus: continued innovation, broader knowledge sharing, and stronger engagement with academia and the private sector will be essential.

Expert presentations provided forward-looking insights on how modern tools are reshaping CBRN risk mitigation. Speakers explored the power of space-based technologies to monitor remote threats, the benefits and risks of AI in decision-making, the implications of a nuclear energy renaissance, and the urgency of updating strategic trade controls for dual-use technologies. The underlying message: technology is advancing fast, and preparedness must keep pace.

A platform ready for the next chapter

The Brussels conference concluded with optimism, not only for what the EU CBRN CoE has achieved, but for its potential to remain a global leader in civilian security cooperation. The Initiative’s 15-year track record, highlighted in the new anniversary publication, serves as both a foundation and a springboard for new partnerships, solutions and strategies.

As Ms Sabbatelli summarised: “Together we can continue to ensure that CBRN risks are effectively understood, mitigated and managed for the safety and security of all of us.”