Transatlantic Engagement in the MENA Region: Challenges and Perspectives

Transatlantic cooperation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region needs to adapt to the new security environment resulting from the Arab revolutions. While domestic issues have forced key regional powers to focus inward and created a power vacuum, the entire region has experienced structural changes that demand a new strategic approach. The traditional state-based order is collapsing, with non-state actors enjoy an increasing part of political authority. Transatlantic powers also need to embrace the new complexity of regional politics and redefine the understanding of extremism, as former 'extremist' movements now form parts of elected governments. In this context, both Europe and the United States must rethink their particular assets to design a common post Arab Spring strategy.