EU foreign and security policy

Role of the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy plays a pivotal role in shaping and implementing the EU's foreign policy. This individual, effectively the EU's diplomat-in-chief,

Distinct Features of the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy

The EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) is distinctive and unique in many ways.

• The CFSP is driven by consensus of the member states, with the High Representative facilitating this consensus.
• The policy aims at peacekeeping, conflict prevention and in strengthening international security
• The CFSP focuses on both military and civilian aspects of crisis management.

Influence of the Refugee Crisis on EU Foreign and Security Policy

The refugee crisis indeed has exerted substantial influence on EU foreign and security policy, resulting in changes and adjustments to accommodate the new reality.

The EU's Response to the Refugee Crisis

In response to the refugee crisis, the EU took several steps geared towards dealing effectively with the situation.

These steps included:

• The establishment of the European Agenda on Migration
• The introduction of the refugee quota system
• Intensified cooperation with third countries like Turkey

Delving into the EU Global Strategy for Foreign and Security Policy 2016

The 2016 EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy (EUGS) is an important milestone in EU's diplomatic history - a comprehensive document outlining the EU's vision and direction for the future. Shared responsibilities and mutual assistance are enshrined principles in this policy document, reinforcing the EU's commitment to unity and multilateralism.

Main Aspects of the EU Global Strategy 2016

The EU Global Strategy 2016 extends beyond matters of security and defence, encapsulating diverse aspects, including promotion of democracy, human rights, rule of law, gender equality and sustainable development.

Some key aspects of the EU Global Strategy include:

• Strengthening security and defence
• Consolidating the European security order
• Enhancing resilience of neighbouring states
• Reinforcing multilateral systems
• Increasing global governance

Evaluation of the Strategy's Implementation

Evaluating the effectiveness and implementation of the EU Global Strategy involves a complex assessment of its impact across various areas. The following table presents a concise summary of the significant metrics:

Historical Evolution of EU Common Foreign and Security Policy

The formation and evolution of the EU Foreign and Security Policy is a captivating story that stretches over several decades. Beginning in the post-World War II period with the establishment of the European Economic Community (EEC), the policy has dramatically evolved alongside the changing global landscape, marked by seminal events reshaping its direction and purview.

Seminal Events in the Development of EU Common Foreign and Security Policy

From the Treaty of Rome in 1957, which initiated the humble beginnings of a common policy in foreign trade, to the introduction of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) via the Maastricht Treaty in 1992, a series of seminal events have systematically progressed the EU's position on foreign and security policy.

• The Single European Act in 1987 was significant for extending community competence into the foreign policy realm.
• The end of the Cold War presented both opportunities and challenges prompting the EU to reconsider its role on the global stage.
• The Maastricht Treaty officially marked the conception of the CFSP, pointing to a growing realisation for increased cooperation between member states in the areas of foreign and defence policy.
• The Bosnian War was a key stimulus for enhancing action and coordination of foreign policy among EU member states.

The Lisbon Treaty's Impact on the EU Foreign Policy

One of the most drastic shifts in the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) was the enforcement of the Lisbon Treaty in 2009. The treaty had profound implications, markedly enhancing the coherence and effectiveness of EU foreign policy.

• The Lisbon Treaty established the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, augmenting the visibility and continuity of the EU foreign policy.
• It introduced a diplomatic service for the EU, known as the European External Action Service (EEAS).
• The treaty broadened the scope of the EU's CFSP to areas such as energy security and climate change, reflecting a modern understanding of security threats.

Contemporary Challenges to EU Foreign and Security Policy

Trends in global political landscape such as the rise of populism, regional conflicts and the diversification of threats pose significant challenges to the effectiveness and scope of EU's foreign and security policy.

• Managing relations with Russia and handling the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
• Addressing emerging security threats such as cyberwarfare and terrorism.
• Dealing with the impacts of the USA's shifting alliances under its "America First" policy.
• The Refugee Crisis, highlighting the need for a coordinated migration and asylum policy.

Future Projections for EU Foreign and Security Policy

The future trajectory of EU foreign and security policy is undoubtedly going to be influenced by both internal and external factors. As the Union continues to grapple with generating consensus among its diverse member states, it is also faced with an unpredictable global landscape marked by new security threats and shifting alliances.

• The Union's ambition of being a true global player and having strategic autonomy.
• Reinforcement of defence cooperation via initiatives like Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO).
• Deepening of political integration and coherence in the wake of the Brexit.
• Navigating the complexities of emerging security challenges like cyber attacks, and strengthening resilience towards hybrid threats.