Munich Security Conference 2026: What to expect as global tensions rise

The 62nd Munich Security Conference will begin on Friday. Often dubbed a "transatlantic family meeting", this year it could turn out to be anything but.

As some of the world's key players gather in the Bavarian capitol for three days of high-stakes, and often candid, discussions on international security and foreign policy, the realities reflect a polarised world order.

The agenda is reflected in this year's Munich Security Report, released ahead of the conference and often seen as a guide to the debates to come.

The report argues that long-standing security norms can no longer be taken for granted due to an era of "wrecking-ball politics," creating distrust amongst traditional allies which is weakening the post-World War II international order.

Topics to be discussed include strained transatlantic ties, the future of NATO and how to strengthen Europe's defence capabilities, continued support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, seen as a defining test of European security and unity.

Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, including efforts surrounding a US proposed Gaza peace plan, will also feature prominently, in addition to cyber and energy security, rapid technological changes and intensifying geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific.

Munich will also host a packed program of side events, ranging from NATO crisis simulations to industry panels focused on technological innovation and strategic supply chains.

Meanwhile, behind closed doors and on the sidelines, where much of the real diplomacy traditionally unfolds, dozens of bilateral and informal meetings are scheduled with some participants openly questioning whether current political and security frameworks are still sufficient.

Among those expected in Munich are regular attendee Wang Yi, China's top diplomat, Germany's Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The United States is expected to send its largest-ever delegation, headed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and including more than a quarter of the US Senate, underscoring the significance Washington attaches to the gathering despite growing strains across the Atlantic.

Despite this, the Munich Security Report urges European states and like-minded partners to adopt bolder diplomatic and political strategies in order to uphold the rules-based international system.

Authorities are also preparing for a record number of demonstrations, as protesters voice opposition to how governments are handling many of today's geopolitical flashpoints.

Organisers are expecting around 1,000 delegates from roughly 120 countries to attend the conference that will run until Sunday.