Pandemics, climate disasters, war, inflation, food and energy shortages – all of the current global crises continue revealing the profound interconnections and dependencies we face on material, geopolitical, environmental and social level. The global target of a net-zero world by 2050 adds further urgency for action. How can we increase the resilience of our states and societies in the face of so many complex challenges? Is the EU’s strategic autonomy the key to getting ahead of future crises?