About

ReGlobe: Rethinking Globalization in an Era of Techno-Nationalism 

In an era of intensifying geopolitical tensions, technology is no longer just a driver of economic growth but has become a key battleground in global power struggles. The ReGlobe project investigates the rise of techno-nationalism and technological decoupling, focusing on how the growing rivalry between the United States and China reshapes European technology policies and practices. 

Our Research Focus 

ReGlobe studies the political, economic, and strategic dimensions of technological decoupling, with a particular emphasis on Europe’s response to these global shifts. Our research is guided by three overarching questions: 

 1. What explains the emergence and evolution of contemporary techno-nationalism and technological decoupling, and how do earlier waves of techno-nationalism compare to the current US-China tech rivalry? 

2. How is the US-China tech rivalry shaping the variety of European policies and practices of techno-nationalism and technological decoupling at both the EU and national levels? 

3. What are the dominant discourses, coalitions, and strategic interests driving and contesting techno-nationalist policies within Europe, the EU, and its member states, and how do sectoral and geopolitical factors influence their formation and impact? 

By addressing these questions, ReGlobe aims to provide a deeper understanding of the forces shaping global and European technology governance, the reconfiguration of supply chains, the political struggles over the future of digital and technological sovereignty, and the resulting varieties of techno-nationalism(s).

Why It Matters 

The growing tension between economic globalization and national security concerns reshapes industries, alliances, and regulatory policy frameworks. As European policymakers navigate these challenges, they must attempt to balance economic openness with strategic autonomy. Understanding the mechanisms and socio-political dynamics behind techno-nationalism is crucial for informed policymaking.  

Our Approach 

The ReGlobe project is structured into three core research areas: 

• US-China Rivalry: Investigating the origins, characteristics, and consequences of techno-nationalism and technological decoupling between the world’s two largest economies and its consequences for Europe. 

• European Union Policies: Analyzing the shift towards techno-nationalism at the EU level embodied in the paradigm shift towards “derisking” and “digital sovereignty”, the role of advocacy coalitions, and the strategies shaping policy decisions. 

• European Member States: Examining national variations in techno-nationalism and emergent technological decoupling across European country's techno-nationalist strategies, the role of sectoral structures, and the implications for Europe’s tech future. 

Through a multidisciplinary approach, ReGlobe combines political science, international relations, global political economy, and economics to offer cutting-edge insights into the new geopolitics of technology. 

Join the Conversation 

As technology and geopolitics become increasingly intertwined, understanding these dynamics is more important than ever.  Get in touch or stay connected with ReGlobe; you can find our details/more information on the contact page and team pages.