Geopolitical Outlook for 2026 

The year 2026 represents a definitive inflection point for the European Union. The global dynamics shifts now project 2026 to be the year of “Forced Adaptation."

2026 projects to be the year of forced adaptation

This interactive map offers an overview of how the key developments of 2025 are shaping expectations for the year ahead across the globe. It highlights major geopolitical and economic pressure points, from the ongoing war in Ukraine and fragile agreements in the Middle East to the potential impact of the Trump presidency on global affairs.

The map also draws attention to strategic arenas that are often overlooked, including growing competition over the Arctic and its resources, regulatory changes within the European Union and the broader impact of global change on Europe’s future.

Click on the icons on the map to explore each issue in more detail and download the report to learn more.