The paradox of energy security
Efforts to secure the flow of energy often do the opposite, reinforcing injustice and historical resentments, argues a new book
Northern Iraq is at war. Renewed sanctions on Iran may be imminent. Opec is cutting supply. Venezuela is collapsing. Relations between Russia and the West are deteriorating. Terror groups are targeting energy assets in countries like Libya and oil-producing South Sudan is a failed state. China is flexing its muscles in the South China Sea. More prosaically, international oil companies have carried out a huge upstream investment retreat since 2014. Such ingredients—especially in combination—would once have spiked oil prices and prompted urgent global summits. These days, oil markets remain sanguine and energy security has lost its paranoia factor. The rise of American oil and gas and public n
Also in this section
6 February 2026
The long close relationship between key supplier Qatar and pivotal buyer Japan becomes even deeper following new landmark deal
6 February 2026
Partnerships across the LNG value chain have evolved over time, growing in both complexity and importance, according to panellists at LNG2026
6 February 2026
Nigeria's mega-refinery is still trying to solve many challenges, all while its owner talks up expansion
5 February 2026
While broadly supportive of EU efforts to tackle methane emissions, representatives of the gas industry warn it could deter supply contracting if timelines and compliance requirements are not made more pragmatic
