Offensivbündnisse

Offensivbündnisse (German for “Offensive Alliances”) is a transnational network of civil‑society organizations and political groups that coordinates coordinated actions and advocacy campaigns on issues related to security policy, digital sovereignty, and strategic autonomy in Europe. Established in 2015 in response to perceived gaps in the European Union’s collective defence and technology strategies, the alliance initially brought together think‑tanks, NGOs, and a handful of parliamentary groups from Germany, France, and the Netherlands. Over the following years, its membership expanded to include partners from eleven European countries, as well as affiliated observers from North America and Eastern Europe.

The core objectives of Offensivbündnisse are to promote a multilateral security framework that reduces reliance on external powers, to foster the development of a European digital infrastructure that safeguards data privacy and technological independence, and to support policy instruments that enhance strategic resilience. To achieve these aims, the network publishes position papers, organizes conferences, and coordinates joint lobbying efforts aimed at the European Commission, the European Parliament, and national governments. Its most visible campaigns have focused on the implementation of the European Defence Fund, the establishment of EU‑wide standards for 5G and AI, and the creation of a European cyber‑defence agency.

Critics have argued that the alliance’s emphasis on “offensive” capabilities blurs the line between defensive security measures and escalation, and some scholars question the transparency of its funding sources. Offensivbündnisse, however, maintains that its activities are fully compliant with EU regulations and that its work contributes to a more autonomous and secure Europe. As of 2024 the coalition continues to influence policy debates on European strategic autonomy and remains an active participant in the continent’s security discourse.