The University, an event like no other
The Defence Summer Conference is today an integral part of the institutional landscape of Defence in the period before the opening of Parliament. It is a unique event for several reasons:
· No other event at this level changes its host city every year.
· No other event has a new partner for each edition
· No operation of this scope is preceded by a permanent University focused on preparing the debates organised during the event
· No other annual event offers so many previews: A380 flight, visit of the A400 M, presentation of new army equipment, of the NH90, the DRAC, the Félin,… prior to use within the armed forces
· All the dynamic demonstrations are original and designed specifically for the event
No other organisation meets this challenge every year.
Two days to meet and reflect together on the Defence of the future
For the past 9 years, the two Chairmen of the Defence Committees, at the French Parliament and the French Senate, have organised the Defence Summer University each year. The University brings together over 350 French and European political leaders, key representatives of administrative authorities and industrial stakeholders, thereby offering a genuine opportunity to reflect together on the Defence of the future. In the presence of the Minister of Defence, the University provides an opportunity to enrich the debate through dialogue and exchange among decision-makers from diverse horizons.
An opportunity to highlight current issues in the Defence sector and to prepare the opening of Parliament
This year, the key challenges of the Defence sector will be addressed from the viewpoint of relations between the State and Industries, in a context combining the response to urgent operations and preparation of the Defence tools of the future. This will provide an opportunity for all participants to focus on future issues and to prepare the opening of Parliament together. By creating an environment conducive to exchanges among various stakeholders, the University is the major event to start a new working year. SEE THE PROGRAM
An exchange platform focused on guaranteed confidentiality
As was the case for the last 8 editions, the debates in 2011 will take be organised in different forms to encourage reflection: plenary session, smaller workshops, forums, more informal meetings…
Like each year, these debates will be either public, or protected by the "Chatham House" Rule. It is important for the University to preserve freedom of speech and informal exchange among participants and to promote networking among key stakeholders in the industry. By guaranteeing confidentiality, the University offers each participant the opportunity to consolidate essential links for the future of the Defence sector.