Research
September 2026 · DOI
Critical Minerals and Strategic Autonomy: Mapping Supply-Chain Vulnerabilities in the Energy Transition
This paper examines critical minerals and strategic autonomy. Drawing on original data and 40 expert interviews, we find that existing policy frameworks underestimate systemic risk and overestimate institutional capacity. Officials familiar with the discussions describe a process that has moved faster than many observers expected, driven less by diplomatic breakthroughs than by mounting domestic pressure in several key capitals. The result is a fragile consensus that could unravel if economic conditions deteriorate further. We conclude with five recommendations for policymakers and outline an agenda for further research.