In 2025, international security grapples with a complex set of challenges that go far beyond traditional military confrontations. Geopolitical instability combines with rapidly evolving cyber threats, hybrid warfare, and biological risks. These challenges call for new security approaches, enhanced international coordination, and innovative solutions.
Key Emerging Threats in International Security
- Hybrid conflicts and ‘gray zone’ warfare
Stability is disrupted through combinations of cyberattacks, disinformation, economic pressure, and limited use of force, blurring traditional lines between war and peace. - Cyberattacks on critical infrastructure
Actors, state and non-state alike, target energy systems, transport, finance, and communication networks, threatening to paralyze nations. - Use of artificial intelligence in armed conflicts and cybercrime
AI accelerates new types of threats—from autonomous drones to sophisticated cyberattack mechanisms and information manipulation. - Biological risks and emerging pandemics
Concerns grow over natural and engineered biological threats posing serious health and security risks. - Rising terrorism and extremism in the digital space
Online radicalization, funding, and coordination of terrorist activities via the internet present new security challenges. - Environmental crises and their security impact
Climate change exacerbates resource conflicts, migration, and regional destabilization.
Modern Threats and Response Measures
| Threat | Features and Challenges | Response Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Hybrid Conflicts | Multifaceted impact without direct combat | International coordination, cyber defense |
| Cyberattacks | High-tech assaults on infrastructure | Cybersecurity enhancement, AI defense |
| Artificial Intelligence | Automating aggression and evolving threats | Ethical norms, regulation, and control |
| Biological Risks | Pandemics and bioterrorism | Strengthening biosafety, global cooperation |
| Digital Terrorism | Online radicalization and funding | Monitoring, proactive countermeasures |
| Environmental Crises | Resource and social consequences of climate change | Sustainable development, international policy |
Trends and Outlook
- Strengthened role of international alliances in forecasting and crisis prevention.
- Active use of AI to detect threats early.
- Growing importance of cyber resilience and intelligence sharing among nations.
- Development of new agreements and standards to control emerging weapon technologies.
- Increased focus on biosafety and emergency preparedness.
In 2025, international security challenges are increasingly complex and intertwined. National and global security strategies evolve accordingly, combining traditional methods with new technologies, international cooperation, and flexible approaches to safeguard a peaceful future.