Organizers described the gathering as taking place at a moment of “exceptional urgency,” citing overlapping crises, escalating geopolitical tensions and deep structural shifts in global affairs.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered the opening remarks, after which numerous speakers are scheduled to address the conference.
The agenda centers on the future of the international order and transatlantic alliances, Europe’s push to reinforce its defense and security framework, continued support for Ukraine, reconstruction efforts in Gaza, as well as climate and energy security, nuclear risks, artificial intelligence and the expanding weaponization of trade and technology.
Around 60 heads of state and government are expected to attend, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Well over two-thirds of European leaders have confirmed their participation.
Meanwhile, the United States is attending with what it calls its “largest delegation ever,” comprising more than a quarter of the US Senate and led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
In addition, more than 50 leaders of international organizations are taking part, including the heads of the European Union, NATO, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the World Bank, the World Trade Organization and numerous UN agencies.
Ahead of the conference, the annual Munich Security Report warned that “the world has entered a period of wrecking-ball politics” and that the “US-led postwar international order is now under destruction.”
The report criticized what it described as US President Donald Trump’s “bulldozer” politics, stating that they are dismantling the international system and paving the way for a world shaped by “the rich and powerful and regional hegemons.”
It argued that Washington’s disruptive agenda, including its disregard for international law and efforts to dismantle established rules and institutions, is set to have far-reaching consequences for crises and conflicts worldwide.