The Franco-German Brigade: Symbol and Reality of a Joint Defense Policy in the Changing European Security Structure

The Franco-German Brigade, founded in 1989, was a pioneering initiative by Germany and France to strengthen bilateral military cooperation, which has laid the groundwork for a European army. For decades, it has served as a symbol of the two nations’ commitment to shared security policy and European integration. However, in light of recent geopolitical shifts—particularly Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine—questions arise regarding its continued relevance as a central pillar of European defence policy. This paper analyses the Brigade’s evolution in both political and military dimensions, in particular the extent to which it reflects a shared strategic culture between Germany and France. The paper highlights structural challenges, such as differing military traditions, organisational frameworks, and political divergences, which impact the Brigade’s operational capacity. It also explores the role of the Brigade in fostering trust and interoperability between the two nations’ armed forces. Against the backdrop of a rapidly changing European security structure, the study assesses the Brigade’s potential of adapting to new threats and its significance as a model for multinational military cooperation. By addressing these issues, the paper contributes to the broader debate on the future of European defence integration and the role of Franco-German leadership in shaping it.

Benjamin Pfannes, M.A., studied History and French, with a focus on Modern and Contemporary History, at the universities of Mainz and Dijon. During his studies, he worked as a research assistant at the Chair of Contemporary History at the Johannes Gutenberg University and at the Leibniz Institute of European History in Mainz. His research interests centre on 20th-century German and French history, particularly National Socialism, as well as Franco-German foreign and security policy in the 20th and 21st centuries. Currently, he is pursuing a doctoral dissertation at the University of Potsdam, where he investigates the role of the Franco-German Brigade in binational cooperation between Germany and France.

Please note that registration for this seminar will close a few days in advance. Details about how to join the seminar will be circulated via email to registered attendees 24 hours in advance.