Event Announcement | Lecture & Panel Discussion

Why Doesn’t Europe Balance? Rethinking Threat and Dependence

📅 May 14th | 15:00 – 17:00

📍 Mingli Building, 428B

Event Overview

Why does Europe continue to rely on the United States, even as crises, economic shocks, and political tensions repeatedly challenge the transatlantic relationship?

This event explores a central puzzle in International Relations. While classical theory suggests that states should balance against perceived threats, Europe’s behavior reveals a more complicated dynamic shaped by dependence, fragmentation, and institutional constraints.

The session will combine a keynote lecture, a panel discussion, and a networking segment, creating space for both structured analysis and open exchange.

 Keynote Speaker

Dr. Vasilis Trigkas is Assistant Professor of Global Affairs at Tsinghua University. His research focuses on strategic studies, international security, and geoeconomics, particularly in relation to China–US–EU relations.

He has held positions at institutions including Tsinghua University, Columbia University, and the Pacific Forum CSIS, and his work has been widely published in leading academic journals and international media. His forthcoming book, Parallel Lives: Themistocles, Deng Xiaoping and the Rise of Great Powers, reflects his interest in leadership and grand strategy.

Panelist

Dr. Sophie Wushuang Yi, Postdoctoral Teaching Fellow at Schwarzman College, Tsinghua University, will join the discussion as a guest commentator.

Her research examines China’s naval strategy and maritime doctrine, with a focus on Sino-US strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific. She has published across both academic and policy platforms and actively contributes to international strategic dialogues.

Schedule

15:00 – 15:10| Opening Remarks

15:10 – 15:50| Keynote Lecture (Dr. Trigkas)

15:50 – 16:35 | Panel Discussion

16:35 – 17:00| Networking Session

We warmly invite you to join this discussion on European strategy, transatlantic relations, and the evolving dynamics of global power. Scan the QR Code below to sign up!