NATO officials met with private sector and European Commission representatives in The Hague on 1–2 October 2025 to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation between civilian and military sectors and enhance resilience in times of crisis, according to the Alliance.

The two-day seminar examined how public-private collaboration can complement NATO’s deterrence and defence posture by ensuring continuity in critical services such as energy, communications, water, healthcare, food supply and transport. Participants also addressed strategies for maintaining societal resilience in contested environments and during hybrid or cyber disruptions.

François-Marie Gougeon, NATO’s Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Defence Policy and Planning, opened the event, saying in the press release that the discussions “contribute to NATO’s efforts in improving resilience against threats to Allied nations and populations” and emphasising the importance of integrating civilian and military planning for collective security.

Marco Zannoni, Director for Crisis Management at the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security and host of the seminar, said that closer cooperation across sectors is essential. “Strengthening the resilience of our societies, including government, businesses, civil society organisations, the public and the links between them, is critical to reducing risks and vulnerabilities in the face of today’s challenges,” he said.

NATO has identified societal resilience as a central element of its collective defence strategy, encouraging closer coordination between governments, industry and civil institutions to mitigate disruptions and safeguard essential national functions.

George Allison
George Allison is the founder and editor of the UK Defence Journal. He holds a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and specialises in naval and cyber security topics. George has appeared on national radio and television to provide commentary on defence and security issues. Twitter: @geoallison

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