Dr. Tim Sweijs is a leading voice on geopolitics and international security, known for his ability to explain a complex and rapidly changing world in a clear, understandable way. As the Director of Research at The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies, he works at the heart of debates shaping Dutch, ...
Dr. Tim Sweijs brings a multidisciplinary, real-world perspective to the big questions of our time. Drawing on geopolitics, war, history, technology, and strategy he clearly explains how global power is shifting and how this is reshaping Europe’s choices. He connects global developments directly to the dilemmas faced by governments, businesses and citizens. His perspective combines historical depth with forward-looking vision, helping audiences grasp not only what is happening globally, but why it matters, and how it
affects them.
Tim talks about the big geopolitical challenges that we face, including the changing balance of power in the world and the strategic position of the Netherlands and Europe in an era of intensifying competition between the United States, China, and Russia. He
explains how small powers such as the Netherlands can navigate between these powers to protect our security, prosperity, and way of life. He is also frequently invited to speak about the wars of today and tomorrow, examining what the war of the future may look
like, how small and middle powers such as the Netherlands should prepare for the war of tomorrow, and what this means not only for the government, but also for corporations, both for MNC and SMEs, and citizens. He addresses the growing impact of new technologies, including generative AI, on security, and how technological change is reshaping conflict, influence, and resilience in ways that directly affect society.
Dr. Sweijs acts as an adviser to governments, international organisations, and policy leaders. He has served as an expert witness to the United Nations Security Council, NATO’s Parliamentary Assembly, and European and national parliaments. Beyond policy
circles, he is a trusted commentator on international affairs in national and international media and a sought-after speaker at conferences and events.
He holds degrees in War Studies, International Relations, and Philosophy from King’s College London and the University of Amsterdam. He is the author of numerous influential reports and books on international security and international conflict, from
Putting the G Back into Great Power Politics to The War of Tomorrow and Beyond Ukraine: Debating the Future of War. His talks are valued for their clarity, authority, and creativity, and for their ability to connect global developments to the real-world choices facing, organisations, leaders, and society at large.