The EU's Common Security and Defense Idea in the Context of EU-NATO Relations
The EU's Common Security and Defense Idea in the Context of EU-NATO Relations

Summary/Abstract: The European Union (EU) has historically depended on the United States (US) and NATO for its security and defense policies, particularly during the Cold War. Despite aspirations for a selfsufficient security and defense policy, the EU has yet to realize this goal, necessitating a reassessment of its strategies in light of emerging threats and crises in the post-Cold War era. This study evaluates the EU's pursuit of an independent security and defense policy, revealing that collaboration with the US and NATO enhances the EU's ability to implement such a policy, rather than opposing these entities. The proposed European Security and Defense Policy (ESDP) aims to integrate the EU's security efforts within the broader framework of NATO, which currently defines NATO-EU relations as a “strategic partnership,” indicating that the ambition for an independent European defense system remains predominantly a French initiative at this time.

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