Ten Ideas for the New Team - How the EU can Navigate a Power Political World

This EUISS Chaillot paper outlines ten recommendations to strengthen the EU’s Foreign and Security Policy in response to a fragmented and unstable global landscape. Aimed at EU leaders and policymakers, the report has been published in anticipation of the EU Commission and High Representative of 2024-29. The proposals are organised into three main themes: new ways of thinking, working, and acting.

While the report covers various foreign and security policy areas, it focuses on modernising frameworks like the European Neighbourhood Policy, establishing a "Council for the Defence of Europe" to streamline strategic decisions, and strengthening resilience on Europe’s eastern borders. Among other topics, it suggests forming selective partnerships beyond traditional multilateral formats and allowing candidate countries to participate in Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) initiatives as a first step towards full membership.

Chapter 7, Rethinking CSDP Missions and Operations, specifically examines the EU’s CSDP missions and operations, calling for a clearer focus on crisis response and prioritising missions that serve core European interests. Jan Joel Andersson argues that many CSDP missions have had limited impact due to challenges like inadequate resources and low political commitment from host nations. He recommends focusing CSDP efforts in the EU’s immediate neighbourhood, particularly in candidate and partner countries like Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans, where political support and strategic benefits are stronger. Additionally, the EU should reinforce maritime security to protect vital trade routes.

This report provides an overview of key developments and potential solutions relevant to the EU’s civilian crisis management. The authors warn that, while political obstacles are inevitable, failing to take ambitious action could marginalise Europe and increase its vulnerability in an increasingly polarised world.

Reference: Andersson, J. J. et al. (2024).  Ten Ideas for the New Team - How the EU can Navigate a Power Political World. European Union Institute for Security Studies (EUISS). DOI: 10.2815/017831.