About NATO Engages
NATO Engages is a platform that connects NATO with global citizens to discuss and address the most pressing security challenges. Through events, it encourages innovation and dialogue on defence, security, and the role of technology in international relations. It brings together experts, thought leaders, and the public to explore how NATO adapts to emerging threats and opportunities, fostering collaboration across different sectors and nations.
Nik had a lead convening role at NATO’s 70th anniversary commemoration conference in Washington.
A core part of Thinking the Unthinkable’s focus and mission is to drive debate and conversations on what is not being adequately thought about.
Often the exchanges are confidential and behind closed doors.
An example of one public event is NATO’s 70th anniversary commemoration conference in Washington.
NATO Engages is the Alliance’s leading outreach programme. Its Washington event was organised jointly by the Munich Security Conference, the Atlantic Council and German Marshall Fund.
Nik’s co-moderator for the seven hours of exchanges was Ines Pohl, Editor-In-Chief, Deutsche Welle. Note the visionary setting in the round, and its impact on the atmosphere and engagement.
In Nik’s words:
“We managed to create dialogue, engagement and a spontaneous ventilation of ideas which is so often lacking in this kind of gathering. Contributors at every level felt motivated to offer views on what NATO must do to prepare for new unthinkables.”
Feedback from the event was extremely positive. Damon Wilson, Executive Vice President of the Atlantic Council wrote:
“Let me offer you a TREMENDOUS THANK YOU. You are a remarkable colleague and collaborator and I love watching you in action. Your touch with Ines was perfect. THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK YOU… . NATO was blown away, NATO governments especially the Brits were awestruck, and the consortium and our partners couldn’t be happier. You helped us deliver on the vision of making NATO engaging if not sexy. We’ve done several debriefs and you two are always a highlight.”
Our Latest Client Examples
Explore the latest from Thinking the Unthinkable. From global conferences and summits, to town hall meetings. Click on an example below to learn more about the work we do.
Villars Summit 2026 | Villars, 2026
At the Villars Ocean Forum 2026, Nik Gowing moderated high-level, science-led sessions focused on one of the most urgent systemic risks facing the planet: the destabilisation of ocean, glacier and polar systems.
GAIGI Geneva AI Trade Forum | Geneva, Feb 2026
The Geneva AI Governance Institute (GAIGI) promotes international cooperation on AI regulation, addressing practical challenges that hinder cross-border governance. A workshop moderated by Nik Gowing focused on unifying regulatory approaches, particularly regarding AI in the Global South, advocating for simple, effective solutions to prevent fragmentation of rules.
Regenerative Farming x AgriTech | InTent Davos, 2026
At the InTent at Davos series during the 2026 World Economic Forum, Nik Gowing was invited to shape and steer an exclusive workshop. It focused on one of the most consequential intersections of climate, technology and food systems.
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