Is the EU downscaling political engagement in Central Asia?

As of 1 March 2014, the EU will no longer have a EUSR to Central Asia. Ambassador Patricia Flor who has fulfilled the role since June 2012 has been recalled to Berlin and she will not be replaced. Instead, the EEAS is likely to appoint a special envoy to the region. As an EEAS staff member, an envoy will have less political clout with Central Asian leaders and in broader political processes than an EUSR who is appointed by the Council of the EU on behalf of member states.

ESO: Background information: Ten tasks for the new EU Special Representative to Central Asia http://www.europeansources.info/record/ten-tasks-for-the-new-eu-special-representative-to-central-asia/

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