1. Making multilateralism matter: the EU Security Strategy
- Author:
- Catriona Gourlay, Catriona Mace, and Gerrard Quille
- Publication Date:
- 07-2003
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- International Security Information Service
- Abstract:
- The European Security Strategy (ESS) adopted as the basis for an EU Strategic Concept at the Thessaloniki European Council on 20 June is intellectually coherent, holistic and sufficiently flexible to enable the EU to adapt effectively to the changing security environment. It directly addresses the US priorities of international terrorism and weapons of mass destruction (WMD), proposing concrete steps within a broad framework. Moreover, should member states muster sufficient will to agree a Security Concept in December 2003, this will represent an important moment in the evolution of the EU-US strategic partnership. It remains to be seen, however, whether this will deliver effective multilateralism, an institutionalised and equitable dialogue with the US and the capabilities required for decisive and rapid responses to international crises.
- Topic:
- Security and Defense Policy
- Political Geography:
- Europe