On 30 and 31 October 2025, an International Conference entitled “Hybrid Challenges in the Southern Neighbourhood” was held in Athens at the Titania Hotel, co-organised by NATO’s Allied Command Transformation (ACT) and the General Directorate of National Defence Policy and International Relations (GDNDPIR) of the Hellenic Ministry of National Defence.
The Conference addressed three thematic sections, primarily aiming to enhance NATO’s strategic understanding and collaborative capabilities in countering hybrid threats in the Southern Neighbourhood, with a particular focus on improving human security and strengthening regional resilience.
During the activities, the participants concentrated on identifying and mapping the primary hybrid threats arising from cyberattacks, disinformation, and proxy activities, as well as on how these factors undermine stability and human security in the Southern Neighbourhood.
Simultaneously, the complex link between hybrid threats and terrorism was examined, highlighting the way these challenges exploit weak institutions, social tensions, and information networks, thereby exacerbating instability and weakening societal cohesion.
The Conference’s proceedings made a substantial contribution to the formulation of evidence-based policy proposals for NATO and its allies, intending to bolster deterrence, optimise crisis management, and reinforce regional cooperation.
The opening of the Conference’s sessions was announced by Ambassador a.h. Michel Spinellis, Director-General of the General Directorate of National Defence Policy and International Relations (GDNDPIR), and Major General Devin PEPPER, Deputy Director-General of Strategic Planning and Policy at NATO/ACT.
The Conference was also attended by representatives from sixteen Member States of the Organisation, as well as delegates from other international organisations, institutional bodies, and academic institutions. This broad participation underscored the necessity of strengthening international collaboration and multilateral dialogue as fundamental elements in promoting security, stability, and resilience in the Southern Neighbourhood.
