Europe expands intelligence powers amid U.S. democratic decline

European governments are expanding the powers of their intelligence agencies to counter intensifying Russian hybrid warfare and growing Chinese espionage. In response to threats against critical infrastructure and uncertainty regarding the reliability of the United States as a security partner, nations in Germany, the Nordic countries, and Eastern Europe are relaxing long-standing restrictions. These new authorities may allow agencies to conduct offensive cyberattacks, disrupt hostile operations, and share information with private companies.

Simultaneously, a report from the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) warns that democratic decline in the United States is undermining international rules and alliances essential to European security. The report notes significant declines in American democratic performance since 2020, specifically regarding judicial independence, press freedom, and parliamentary effectiveness. The erosion of the rule of law and increased political polarization in the U.S. are viewed as factors that challenge long-standing multilateral cooperation and global stability.