The Chatham House analysis concludes that the UK's Defence Investment Plan (DIP) will be viewed by NATO allies as a mixed bag, primarily due to its failure to commit to higher GDP spending targets. However, the plan signals critical strategic improvements by emphasizing novel technologies—such as autonomous systems and digital infrastructure—and enhancing readiness. Crucially, the DIP adopts an international focus through major collaborative programs (e.g., AUKUS, GCAP) and establishes a new National Armaments Director Group (NADG). This structural shift toward flexible, portfolio-based collaboration is strategically valuable for NATO allies seeking reliable partners as US conventional forces reduce their European presence.
‘Shaping Global Order’ exhibition at the 2026 London Conference
English Summary
The 'Shaping Global Order' exhibition highlights that understanding global power requires looking beyond official narratives and public posturing. Through specialist portraiture, the exhibit argues that genuine insight into influential figures—ranging from world leaders to civil society activists—emerges only in brief, unguarded moments. The methodology emphasizes observation over elaborate production, suggesting that true character is revealed when individuals stop 'performing' for the camera or the press. For policy strategists, this implies that reliable intelligence gathering must prioritize capturing authentic behavior and subtle interactions rather than relying solely on formal diplomatic statements or public appearances.
中文摘要
「塑造全球秩序」展覽強調，要理解全球權力結構，必須超越官方敘事和公開的姿態。透過專業肖像攝影，該展覽論證指出，對於從世界領袖到公民社會活動等有影響力的人物，真正的洞察力往往只在那些無防備、自然流露的瞬間才會浮現。其方法論著重於觀察而非精心製作，暗示了真正的本質是在個人停止為鏡頭或媒體「表演」時才得以揭示。對於政策策略師而言，這意味著可靠的情資蒐集必須將捕捉真實行為和微妙互動置於首位，而不應僅依賴正式的外交聲明或公開亮相。
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The publication argues that Britain faces a 'perfect storm' of geopolitical instability, economic coercion, and technological change, compounded by historical policy complacency. Key evidence points to rising global protectionism, great power competition (especially with China), and increased conflict in regions like Eastern Europe and the Middle East. To secure its future, the UK must shift from merely reacting to crises toward actively shaping the international order. This requires building sovereign resilience, deepening alliances within NATO, and proactively deploying its core values—such as multilateralism and the rule of law—to maintain global influence.