How new is the EU’s new agenda for the Mediterranean?
A post pandemic economic recovery? The EU’s joint communication from the EEAS and Commission on a ‘renewed partnership with the southern neighbourhood’, issued in early February, attempts to inject new dynamism into its relations with the region. Many on both sides of the Mediterranean argue that the initiative is badly needed, given the economic and […]
The troubling reform of Poland’s Foreign Service
Ever since the Law and Justice (PiS) party returned to power in Poland, it has been subject to the specific mechanism to address “serious and persistent” breaches of the EU’s founding values (Article 7 TEU). It has also been facing several infringement procedures because of its assaults on the independence of the Polish judiciary. Some […]
From self-doubt to self-assurance
The rivalry and contestation of today’s world should be reason enough for the European Union to act as a cohesive force, if only to avoid being outmanoeuvred by major powers. Yet EU countries and institutions are still struggling to set aside their differences and focus on the common interest. The 10th anniversary of the European […]
The EU in Libya
Peace in Libya is within reach, but not without a concerted effort by Europe. The UN-backed Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA) and the Tobruk-based Haftar-led Libyan National Army (LNA) met within the 5+5 Joint Libyan Military Commission format on October 23rd, and agreed to a “permanent” ceasefire. Building on this momentum, on November 9th, […]