An outstanding intern researched hybrid threats at the CMDR COE

An outstanding intern researched hybrid threats at the CMDR COE

Date: (30-03-2026)

The Crisis Management and Disaster Response Centre of Excellence (CMDR COE) continues to provide a valuable environment for research and professional development on some of the most pressing challenges in today’s security landscape, including hybrid threats.

During his recent internship at the Centre, our intern from the Netherlands, Niels Tijssen, conducted research on the topic “Deterring Hybrid Warfare: A Chance for NATO and the EU to Work Together.” The paper, which will be included in the next CMDR COE Proceedings, explores how NATO and the European Union can enhance deterrence against hybrid threats through closer cooperation, with particular focus on strengthening Euro-Atlantic security in the Arctic and building resilience in the space domain.

Niels’ research highlights that, in an increasingly contested security environment, effective deterrence requires more than responding to threats as they emerge. It also depends on anticipating future challenges, denying adversaries opportunities to succeed, and strengthening the resilience of societies and institutions through cooperation.

What made this work particularly valuable was the opportunity to develop it within the unique learning environment of the CMDR COE. Through the Centre’s courses and expertise, I was able to deepen my understanding of NATO’s role in crisis management, resilience, and hybrid threats, and directly apply that knowledge to a topic about which I had previously only limited experience writing. This made the research process both challenging and highly rewarding, shared Niels on his last day at the Centre.

This experience demonstrates the CMDR COE’s ongoing contribution to advancing knowledge, encouraging critical thinking, and enhancing preparedness on issues of increasing importance for Allied security.

All CMDR COE staff wish Niels fair winds and all the best in the next stage of his journey!

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