The Torch
Illuminating Security and Defence Issues
Associate Events
Lies in the Skies: Limits of the Drone Warfare Evolution and the Rise of Countermeasures
24 April 2026 -
Drones represent an evolution in warfare, not a revolution, and the full implications of drone warfare have not yet been felt. The ability to operate effectively despite drone threats is the necessary precondition for success and the reason counter-drone capability deserves even greater attention than drone capability itself. Battle-winning operations will continue to require modern, specialized platforms operated by increasingly informed, connected, protected, and adaptive personnel. Drones will be an important part of that future, but they will not fundamentally replace it.
Individualized Deterrence: Hyper‑Personalized Dissuasion in the Information Age
27 March 2026 -
Traditional deterrence assumes countries act like calm, rational players pursuing clear national interests. But in many authoritarian systems, that’s not how decisions are really made. Power often rests in the hands of one individual — and that individual may care less about abstract national goals and more about staying in power, protecting loyal elites, building personal wealth, or shaping their legacy in history. If we want deterrence to work in those contexts, is it possible to think less about “what does the other country needs?” and more about “what does the leader want?” ...
Laurier Centre for the Study of Canada
36th Canadian Military History Colloquium
8 May 2026 - 9 May 2026
The Canadian Military History Colloquium is the largest gathering of military historians in Canada, bringing together academics, students, independent scholars and members of the public to share the latest work in Canadian military history and war and society....
Ottawa Conference on Security and Defence
4 March 2026 - 5 February 2026
If you are unable to attend in person, the conference will be livestreamed publicly on Canada’s parliamentary cable network, CPAC. There is no cost or registration required to watch, and session recordings will be available afterward through the CPAC Video Archive....
What is China’s vision for a new world order?
22 January 2026 -
As America retreats from its dominant role on the global stage changes, experts debate Beijing’s international ambitions and how it aims to remake the world order....
The Kingston Consortium on International Security: Securing the Seas
18 November 2025 - 20 November 2025
In an era of growing geopolitical tensions, cyber threats, and economic vulnerabilities, maritime security is a critical concern for North America and Europe. This conference brings together defence leaders, military practitioners, and academics to assess emerging threats to maritime trade, undersea infrastructure, and naval operations. Discussions will explore the impact of global disruptions, the role of naval forces in deterrence, and the need for transatlantic cooperation to safeguard economic stability and uphold the rules-based international order....
19 August 2025 – Cybersecurity as Part of National Security and Foreign Policy
27 July 2025 -
Is cybersecurity now a pillar of national security and foreign policy – or is it still just seen as a tech problem? Using Estonia as a case study, we will explore how one country responded to a major cyberattack by strengthening its digital infrastructure, securing its public services, and making cybersecurity a whole-of-government responsibility.
Australian Institute of International Affairs
15 July 2025 – Srebrenica Genocide 30 Years On 1995-2025: Impunity and Glorification of Mass Atrocity in Bosnia and Herzegovina
10 June 2025 -
Join us either in-person or online with Dr Olivera Simic, a feminist, human rights activist and a Professor at the Griffith Law School, who will speak about the politics and culture of twenty years of Srebrenica genocide denial in Bosnia and Herzegovina and beyond.
17 June 2025 – The Walrus Talks at Home: DEI
20 May 2025
Is DEI dying? Exploring Canada’s response to the backlash to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Department of National Defence
14-15 May 2025 – The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Joint Operations Symposium (JOS)
14 May 2025 - 26 March 2025
Canadian War Museum. In-person by invitation only but virtual open to all. See link for registration. The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Joint Operations Symposium (JOS) brings together senior defence and national security leaders to examine specific operational challenges and explore potential solutions to ensure the CAF remains fit for purpose, ready for pan-domain operations and able to successfully deter and defeat threats to Canada, North America and Canadian interests abroad.