Britain faces a series of emerging global threats amid what a former defence minister describes as a dangerous and uncertain international climate. Tobias Ellwood, who served in the Royal Green Jackets and held several political roles including chair of the Defence Select Committee, argues that the current moment resembles the 1930s, but warns that unlike that period, the country lacks preparation, resilience, and decisive leadership.

In his recently published book, "Ten Steps To Prevent World War 3," Ellwood calls for urgent action to strengthen Britain's defence capabilities and renew political will, emphasizing the responsibility of both Britain and the United States to lead in maintaining global stability. He highlights the fragility of the post-World War II international order, which has long underpinned peace and prosperity in the West, and warns that this framework is now under strain.

Ellwood’s perspectives are shaped by personal tragedy and firsthand experience with terrorism. His brother, Jonathan Ellwood, was killed in the 2002 Bali bombings, an event that deeply affected him and motivated his commitment to security issues. He recounts the harrowing search for his brother’s body amid the aftermath of the attack. Ellwood also witnessed the 2017 Westminster attack, rushing to aid PC Keith Palmer, who was fatally stabbed by a terrorist. These encounters with violent extremism have informed his calls for stronger defence and preparedness.

Before entering politics as the Member of Parliament for Bournemouth East in 2005, Ellwood served in multiple international postings, including Bosnia, Cyprus, Germany, Gibraltar, Kuwait, and Northern Ireland, rising to the rank of captain. His military background, combined with his political career—which included roles as foreign minister and defence minister—provides him with a unique insight into the intersection of defence policy and governance.

Ellwood criticizes the current government’s approach to defence investment, contending that waiting for economic improvement before enhancing security measures is a flawed strategy. He likens it to a shopkeeper delaying security upgrades until after a robbery occurs. He warns that modern threats now include disruptions to energy infrastructure and cyber attacks, making national security and economic security inseparable.

Expressing concern over Britain’s political leadership, Ellwood notes the narrow professional backgrounds of many newly elected MPs, with a significant portion coming from parliamentary staffing, unions, or lobbying, rather than diverse real-world experience. He laments that the “brightest minds” increasingly avoid politics at a time when strong leadership is most needed.

Despite his international upbringing—born in New York during his father’s United Nations posting and educated in Austria—Ellwood identifies Bournemouth as home and remains committed to serving its coastal constituency. He calls for a revival of statecraft and urges a re-strengthening of the transatlantic alliance, acknowledging current tensions but stressing the importance of unity in the face of shared threats. Ellwood invokes the ancient Roman military maxim, “If you want peace, prepare for war,” encapsulating his belief in the need for readiness to prevent future conflicts.