Freedom needs Security

For decades, the West celebrated freedom – and neglected security. In the belief that democracy and dialogue would safeguard peace, we dismantled our defenses, outsourced responsibility and dismissed resilience as illiberal. But today’s world – shaken by war, disinformation and geopolitical ambition – demands a new realism. In this talk, I will make the case for a strong, resilient liberalism: one that defends its values with clarity, confidence and courage. Drawing from history, political theory and present-day challenges, I invite us to rethink our assumptions – and to understand why freedom without security is an illusion. If we want to stay free, we must be willing to defend what makes us free.

Katja Gentinetta gave her talk at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community.

You can watch her TED-Talk here.