Global Security and Innovation Summit is coming to Hamburg

Hamburg Messe und Congress (HMC) and the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) have agreed a strategic partnership to organise the Global Security and Innovation Summit (GSIS). The inaugural event is to take place at the CCH – Congress Center Hamburg on 22 and 23 October 2025. The GSIS aims to provide a joint platform for international decision-makers and subject-matter experts to discuss the growing number of global security challenges and develop innovative solutions.

At a time marked by disruptive developments and the emergence of innovative technologies, all of which have a profound impact on the global security architecture, the event will explore how international security can be maintained and improved in the face of these changes. The GSIS will address this broad topic and develop answers for an increasingly interconnected world.

"Technology and innovation are both a challenge and an opportunity for security establishments around the globe. The increasing speed of change requires an open, interdisciplinary dialogue. By establishing the GSIS, we are creating a platform for political, business and technology stakeholders to exchange views and ideas, and bring new solutions to the table," said Dr Bastian Giegerich, Director-General and Chief Executive of IISS.

Heiko M. Stutzinger, CEO of Hamburg Messe und Congress, added: “Geopolitical developments in recent years have shown that Europe's North is steadily gaining in strategic importance. By hosting the GSIS in Hamburg, we are closing a geographical gap in the event landscape focused on security."

The new format will be a multifaceted conference combined with an accompanying exhibition presenting current approaches and innovative solutions related to security policy. The partnership brings together the security and defence policy expertise of IISS and the event management capabilities of Hamburg Messe und Congress.

"Hamburg was purposely chosen as the site for the GSIS because the city provides ideal conditions due to its location, economic importance and dynamic innovative strength. Situated centrally in the heart of Europe, Hamburg interlinks Western Europe, the Nordic countries and the Baltic area, providing a natural platform for an open dialogue between international stakeholders," explained Giegerich.

As an important part of the preparations for the GSIS, an international listening tour will begin in the upcoming weeks. Stakeholders covering a wide range of expertise will be included in the development of the event concept. The aim is for the GSIS agenda to be responsive to different regional perspectives and specific needs. "The listening tour is a key element to make the Global Security and Innovation Summit a platform that merges global thinking with regional perspectives," stressed Stutzinger.

In addition to the conference and accompanying exhibition, the GSIS will incorporate a range of innovative formats to encourage a continuous dialogue. Additional supporting events are being scheduled at selected global IISS sites throughout the year, complemented by a year-round offer of digital platforms and services. Further announcements about the agenda will be made closer to the event.