Europe Independent From Global Influences
EU Fortifies Position Amidst Global Upheaval: Uniting, Rearming, and Leading to Maintain Influence
Europe, a continent traditionally grounded in open markets, multilateral cooperation, democratic governance, and respect for human rights, is confronting a rapidly shifting global landscape. Two prevailing factors are driving this transformation: the escalation of authoritarian powers and the surge of national populism within liberal democracies.
The increasing influence of authoritarian forces, primarily from Russia and China, has led to a decline in democratic practices worldwide. As parts of the Arab world struggle with democratic transition and governments become more fractured, it becomes increasingly difficult to dispute this trend.
Another significant factor is the resurgence of national populism within Western democracies, most notably in the United States under President Donald Trump. Since his return to office, Trump has engaged in a series of measures that threaten the international liberal order. These actions include imposing tariffs that flout World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, withdrawing from international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNESCO, and imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The EU, with its emphasis on trade and multilateralism, now stands at odds with the US on major international issues. With the US abandoning commitments to climate action, the defense of human rights, and multilateral collaboration, Europe finds itself isolated.
The transatlantic relationship is also straining. Trump's unilateral approach to foreign policy has led to exclusionary negotiation tactics, most recently with peace talks over Ukraine conducted without consultation with European allies. This exclusion not only develops rifts between the US and the EU but also disregards Europe's vital interests in the matter.
Recognizing the need for unity and self-reliance, Europe is taking steps to adapt to this newly hostile environment. The EU must strengthen its foreign policy, ensuring that it speaks with a unified voice in defense of its core values and interests. To that end, Europe must invest more in its defense resources, aiming to secure its continental security and lead in resolving regional conflicts, starting with establishing a lasting and just peace in Ukraine.
While some argue that a European defense policy may be unattainable or that Europe cannot confront the Russian threat alone, the combined economic might and defense expenditure of EU member states far outstrip those of Russia. If Europe fails to unite and defend its interests, it risks facing a profound crisis of strategic autonomy.
In this era of increasing global uncertainty, Europe must articulate its strategic ambitions to its citizens, demonstrating the importance of shared responsibility in preserving the continent's security and values. By building and sustaining unity among its members, Europe can navigate the challenges ahead and maintain its global influence. The choice before Europe is clear: unite, arm, and lead, or risk sliding into irrelevance and insecurity.
Manuel Muniz, Provost of IE University and a Professor of Practice of International Relations, has highlighted the need for Europe to embrace strategic autonomy and forge a cohesive EU foreign policy in response to a more hostile global environment.
- The rising tide of national populism in Western democracies, coupled with the escalation of war-and-conflicts caused by authoritarian powers, warrant a reevaluation of policy-and-legislation within European politics.
- Amidst global upheaval, it's essential for the EU to strengthen its foreign policy, addressing war-and-conflicts proactively (such as the Ukrainian peace talks), and promote general-news coverage that underlines the importance of unity and self-reliance through strategic autonomy.
