EPIS Magazine Issue VII

Mika Aaltola explains how Russia’s war in Ukraine transformed Finnish public opinion and pushed Finland into NATO. He argues that Finland’s defense posture and trust-based society enable it to lead by example. For Europe to remain relevant, Aaltola urges stronger, more coordinated defense and renewed trust in institutions. Investing in security is not a threat to democracy but a foundation for it.

Is current satellite cybersecurity sufficient to address emerging threats, especially with rising space reliance? Most commercial satellites still rely on outdated or minimal cybersecurity measures. Many use “security by obscurity,” and standard communication protocols either lack security or use weak static keys. Meanwhile, satellites are becoming critical infrastructure and increasingly targeted in cyber conflicts. Current satellite security is inadequate - it must be strengthened.

Main Question: Why does the Gaza war persist despite international efforts to end it? Argument: Regional powers exploit the Gaza conflict to advance strategic interests, fueling its continuation. Conclusion: Only by reshaping regional incentives and fostering genuine cooperation can the cycle of violence be broken.

Main Question: How does the militarization of AI by the U.S. and China contribute to global instability? Argument: The AI arms race between the U.S. and China, especially in autonomous weapon systems (AWS), increases the risk of conflict escalation due to unpredictability, biased data, and reduced human oversight. Conclusion: International governance and responsible AI principles are essential to prevent global insecurity.

Main Question: Does the concept of an "AI arms race" accurately describe current global AI competition? Argument: While AI has military applications, framing it as an arms race oversimplifies its multidimensional, collaborative, and innovation-driven nature. Conclusion: The concept of an "AI innovation race" better captures the reality, urging global cooperation to ensure safe, beneficial, and ethical AI development.

Main question: How do different forms of migration impact international terrorist incidents? Argument: Humanitarian migration, due to socio-economic vulnerabilities and integration challenges, is more linked to increased terrorism risk than non-humanitarian migration, which tends to reduce it. Conclusion: While humanitarian migration shows a small positive correlation with terrorism, its overall impact is minimal.

Main Question: How can Europe make its critical raw materials (CRMs) supply chain more resilient amid geopolitical and economic challenges? Argument: Europe’s heavy reliance on China and unstable resource-rich countries for CRMs threatens its defence and energy transition goals. Conclusion: Europe must mobilize financial incentives, risk guarantees, and foster private investment abroad to secure an integrated and autonomous CRM supply chain.

Main question: Should European governments cut social spending to increase military budgets in response to rising global threats? Argument: Policies that reduce support for the most vulnerable populations increase social inequality, fuel resentment, and create fertile ground for right-wing populism, ultimately weakening democratic stability and national unity. True national security depends not just on military strength, but on a cohesive, empowered society.

Is Israel redrawing the boundaries of international law by force? This article examines Israel’s justification of pre-emptive self-defence against Iran and argues it lacks legal basis under Article 51 of the UN Charter. Without evidence of an actual or imminent armed attack, such actions violate international law and risk eroding global legal norms, setting a dangerous precedent for future conflicts.

Didier le Bret reflects on his career shaped by crises from post-Soviet transitions to the Haiti earthquake. He argues that France must combine credibility, sovereignty, and diplomacy to remain globally relevant. His call: Europe must engage the Global South and reclaim multilateralism to ensure lasting peace and equity.

Since World War II, the Holy See has used its moral authority to engage actively in reconstruction, diplomacy, and the promotion of human rights. Pope Pius XII expanded international relations, especially with newly independent states. Vatican Ostpolitik gained momentum from the 1970s, particularly under John Paul II. Papal diplomacy does not pursue power interests but advocates for values such as religious freedom and human dignity worldwide.

Main Question: Can new US stealth aircraft like the F-47 and B-21 stop China’s rise as a dominant air power in the Pacific?  Argument: The US is facing a shrinking and aging air fleet while China modernizes rapidly, but advanced technologies in the F-47 and B-21 could shift the balance.  Conclusion: If deployed in time, these next-gen stealth platforms may restore US aerial dominance, but delays could tip the scales to China.