The European security strategy. A global agenda for positive power

Abstract:

This book describes the European Security Strategy adopted by the European Council in December 2003. It is the first ever strategic document of the EU and, as such, a milestone for the CFSP/ESDP and for EU external action as a whole.

The work is organised over six chapters. Chapter one provides the context for the setting of the strategy in the aftermath of the Cold War and the new initiatives arising from the Iraq crisis. The second chapter analyses the Strategy’s assessment of the international security environment. Chapter three explores the challenges presented by the comprehensive European Neighbourhood Policy through a case study on neighbourhood relations with the Mediterranean and wider Middle East. The role the Strategy plays in the global scene and the need for reforging the UN collective security system are the focus of chapter four. The fifth chapter examines the policy and capability enhancement opportunities at the intra-European level. Chapter six emphasises the importance of the Strategy as the guiding framework for the whole of EU external action and development of a strategic culture.

The work will interest scholars and students of international strategies, the EU as an international player, and EU integration.