It is leading a NATO research project called “Youth Perspective on Emerging and Disruptive Technologies”. Basically, it wants to gather ideas from young people across NATO countries about how emerging and disruptive technologies might affect the future.
Specifically, it is looking for think pieces that answer the question: “What do you think are the opportunities and risks of emerging and disruptive technologies?”
Entries
The entries can be essays, news articles, advocacy briefs or even bullet point lists, says DSTL. There is, though, a 1000 word limit.
Think pieces will be marked based on the following factors:
- how original your ideas are
- whether you include real-world examples or case studies (including your own experiences)
- how credible and relevant your ideas are
- how convincing your arguments are
- the level of academic quality and accuracy
Prizes
What’s in it for you? The writers of the three best think pieces will be invited to present their entry at a future NATO event. The overall winner will be determined by a panel at this event.
Writers of the top 10 think pieces will receive certificates of commendation, for inclusion on CVs. And the top 10 think pieces may be published in the NATO Journal for Science and Technology.
You can email your entries to ThinkPieceCompetition@dstl.gov.uk. And the deadline is Friday 6 February 2026.
The organisation will announce the winners in May 2026. And more information can be found on the Gov.UK website.
Image: DSTL
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