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The era of single-solution security is over. In a world shaped by disruption and competition, resilience no longer stems from a single security guarantee, alliance, or strategy.

The fifth annual Helsinki Security Forum (HSF) will take place in Helsinki on 2–4 October 2026, bringing together international policymakers and experts to discuss the future of Finnish and European security. The theme of HSF 2026, Layers of Security, highlights both the different layers of security and the diverse actors who help shape them.

“European security is being shaped simultaneously by geopolitical, technological and economic competition, as well as a changing climate. Security is built across multiple layers and by a wide range of actors. Europe must strengthen its ability to act across all these levels if it wants to shape its own security in an increasingly competitive world,” says Hiski Haukkala, Director of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs.

HSF 2026 will address topics including European security and defence cooperation, transatlantic relations, technological sovereignty, defence innovation, energy and climate security, nuclear deterrence, and Russia’s role in the European security landscape.

The conference brings together those helping shape security across politics, research, defence, intelligence, technology, and industry. President of the Republic Alexander Stubb serves as the official patron of the event.

“For five years, Helsinki Security Forum has helped raise issues critical to Finland’s and Europe’s security on the international agenda. At a time when security challenges transcend national borders and sectors, there is a growing need for forums that foster meaningful dialogue and bring together different perspectives,” says Kukka-Maria Kovsky, Conference Director of Helsinki Security Forum.

Long-term supporters of the event include the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, the Ministry of Defence of Finland, the City of Helsinki, and Patria. In 2026, HSF’s partners also include Fortum, Helsinki Shipyard and Sata Shipbuilding, ICEYE, Lockheed Martin, Nokia, STARK, and the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI).

The HSF 2026 programme and other event updates will be published on the HSF website and social media channels.

Register to follow the HSF 2026 livestream here.

HSF 2026 video: