EU to Strengthen Intelligence Hub Without Granting Data Collection Powers

Expanding the Role of the EU Intelligence and Situation Centre

According to Главком: As part of preparations for a new European Security Strategy expected in summer 2026, the European External Action Service plans to enhance the functions of the EU Intelligence and Situation Centre (EU INTCEN). The upgrades will include establishing a dedicated personnel unit and a separate IT infrastructure for the centre. However, EU INTCEN will still not be authorized to independently gather intelligence.

Background and Future Plans for EU INTCEN

Operating since 2012, the EU Intelligence and Situation Centre does not run its own covert operations. Instead, it analyzes information voluntarily shared by the intelligence services of the 27 member states. In 2025, the European Commission attempted to set up its own intelligence body, but member states blocked the initiative. In 2024, Bloomberg reported on plans to expand INTCEN, linking the idea to former Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, who was tasked with drafting a report on the EU's resilience to external threats.

The upcoming security strategy will adopt a broader definition of security, covering:

• defense
• the economy
• supply chain resilience
• cooperation with partners outside the EU

It will also include an assessment of priority geopolitical threats, an analysis of the current state of European security, and a roadmap for future action.

As a Politico source notes: 'We are partners-but not friends.'

In short, boosting EU INTCEN's role marks a significant step toward more effective responses to security challenges in Europe. These changes may reflect growing demands among EU countries for a common security policy, especially amid rising geopolitical threats. The development of the new security strategy also underscores Europe's desire to adapt to a rapidly shifting global landscape and strengthen its standing on the international stage.