Youth Perspectives Sought on Emerging Technologies in NATO Research Initiative
The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is spearheading a research initiative under NATO, titled ‘Youth Perspective on Emerging and Disruptive Technologies’. The project aims to engage young individuals from NATO member nations and selected partners in a discourse over the potential impacts of new technological advancements.
The Aim of the Initiative
This initiative is designed to solicit innovative ideas from youth aged 18 to 34 concerning the implications of disruptive technologies. The goal is to foster forward-thinking dialogue that highlights opportunities and risks associated with these advancements, thus providing valuable insights for policymakers and industry leaders.
Eligibility and Submission Guidelines
Participants eligible to contribute include citizens from NATO countries, alongside Australia, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, and Ukraine. Each submission must be original and focus on the question: ‘What opportunities and risks do you foresee with emerging and disruptive technologies?’
Formats and Themes
There is no prescribed format for submissions; participants can choose from various options, including essays, news articles, or bullet-point lists. Encouraged themes range from ethical and legal implications of emerging technologies to their societal benefits and potential harms.
Significance of Emerging Technologies
Emerging and disruptive technologies are at the forefront of development and could fundamentally reshape industries, leading to the obsolescence of existing business practices and tools. The characteristics of these technologies typically encompass:
- Rapid innovation
- Societal influence
- Revolutionisation of existing paradigms
A notable historical example of such a transformation can be observed with the Ford Model T, which revolutionised personal transportation and irrevocably altered the market, rendering horse-drawn vehicles obsolete.
Judging Criteria and Recognition
Entries for the competition will be assessed based on originality, real-world examples, credibility, and the strength of arguments presented. The deadline for submission is set for Friday, 6 February 2026. Successful contenders, particularly those ranked in the top ten, will be invited to present their ideas at a forthcoming NATO event, with certificates of commendation awarded for notable submissions.
Moreover, the top ten think pieces may be featured in the NATO Journal for Science and Technology, providing a platform for young voices in the technological landscape.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/emerging-disruptive-technologies-nato-competition
