CDS policy work in 2026

Looking ahead to 2026
Building on ongoing work and recent outputs, the Committee will advance a new programme of reports in 2026. The abstracts below outline the planned areas of focus and the key issues guiding the Committee’s work in the year ahead. ↓

Comprehensive Security: Strengthening Allied Resilience Through a Whole-of-Society Approach (General Report)
By Dimitrios KAIRIDIS (Greece)
Allies face interconnected threats, from the risk of high-intensity warfare to persistent hybrid attacks. In this complex strategic environment, reviving and modernising whole-of-society civil defence and preparedness systems is essential to prevent, withstand and recover from disruptions. Effective resilience depends on coordinated action by national and local authorities, armed forces, private sector actors, critical infrastructure operators, civil society and citizens, supported by clear strategies, legal frameworks and sustained public engagement. This report will examine the principles of modern comprehensive security, identify gaps in current preparedness, and provide actionable recommendations for Allies and NATO to strengthen societal resilience against future shocks.

Counter-Terrorism: Bolstering Allied Responses to an Evolving Threat (Special Report)
By Mariana VIEIRA DA SILVA (Portugal)
Terrorism in all its forms and manifestations continues to endanger Allied citizens, institutions and interests. Although large-scale attacks have been less frequent recently, the threat has diversified, with actors exploiting societal vulnerabilities and geopolitical tensions, often operating across borders and through hybrid methods. Terrorist threats also continue to intersect with cyber insecurity, disinformation and criminality. This report will highlight the evolution of the terrorist threat and provide recommendations for governments and parliaments, as well as NATO, to strengthen preparedness, coordination and their collective response.

Securing the Depths: Protecting Undersea Infrastructure for Allied Resilience and Collective Defence (CDSRCS Report)
By Viviane TEITELBAUM (Belgium)
Critical undersea infrastructure (CUI) is a cornerstone of Allied economies and societies, supporting global communications and financial systems as well as ensuring energy security. Yet it faces growing risks from both deliberate and accidental disruptions. Its protection is challenged by physical exposure, limited situational awareness, complex ownership structures and dispersed authorities, making timely responses and attribution difficult. Faced with this challenge, NATO and its Allies have increasingly taken measures to incorporate CUI into their resilience and maritime security planning. This report will provide recommendations for governments and parliaments, as well as NATO, to build on these measures by enhancing preparedness, strengthening coordination and improving the resilience and security of CUI across the Alliance.

The full reports will be published following their adoption at the Annual Session.