Brief/ A More Joined-up Union, a Stronger Europe by Riccardo Alcaro

The EU’s record in managing conflicts and crises around the world has been mixed at best. From Syria to Libya and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the EU’s ability to positively impact and resolve these situations has been limited. Even in cases where the EU achieved seemingly significant breakthroughs, like the Iran nuclear deal or the Kosovo-Serbia talks, these successes have proven temporary and susceptible to reversal.

In this JOINT Brief, Riccardo Alcaro (JOINT Project Coordinator, Istituto Affari Internazionali – IAI) notes how, unless institutional reforms are enacted, the EU’s capacity for impactful action on international security matters is likely to remain modest. However, a recent study by the JOINT project indicates that public support across Europe for greater integration of foreign and defense policies could solidify if political leaders construct and articulate a persuasive vision that resonates with citizens.