And Then What?: Despatches From the Heart of 21st-Century Diplomacy, From Kosovo to Kiev

Cathy Ashton, the EU's first High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security from 2009 to 2014, provides an insider account of European diplomacy in her memoir, "And Then What?" She faced the challenge of representing 28 nations during a turbulent time, negotiating historic settlements, and navigating the needs of opposing politicians to chart a path towards collaboration and stability.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2023
Publisher: Elliott & Thompson Limited

The Financial Times has released its list of the best books of 2023, and one of the standout titles is 'And Then What?', written by Cathy Ashton, the EU's first High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security from 2009 to 2014. The book offers a captivating and conversational insider account of European diplomacy, highlighting the dramatic and often historic events that Ashton played a part in.

While Ashton's tone is down-to-earth, the events she describes are indeed dramatic and often historic. Gideon Rachman, writing for the Financial Times, praises the book, stating that it provides a "colourful insider account of European diplomacy." He notes that Ashton's perspective is valuable, as her involvement in these events sheds light on how our politics would have turned out better if we had had more Cathy Ashtons.

Luke Harding, writing for The Observer, also commends Ashton's book, describing it as a "vital role" that takes place behind closed doors, away from cameras and prying eyes. He asks what this role really looks like in today's world and what it takes to do it well.

From 2009 to 2014, Cathy Ashton served as the EU's first High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security, effectively Europe's foreign policy supremo responsible for coordinating the EU's response to international crises. Arriving in Brussels as a relative novice to international diplomacy, she faced the challenge of representing the views and values of 28 nations during one of the most turbulent times in living memory. Decades-old certainties were swept away in days, and hope rose and fell, often in a matter of hours.

Ashton's journey took her from the frozen conflict of Ukraine to the Serbia-Kosovo deal, and from encountering dictators and war criminals to witnessing the aftermath of natural disasters, military action, and political instability. Working closely with US politicians and counterparts such as John Kerry, Hillary Clinton, and Bill Burns, she negotiated historic settlements, including the Iran nuclear deal. Ashton is known for her role as an "honest broker," navigating the needs of opposing politicians to chart a path towards collaboration and stability.

In 'And Then What?', Ashton takes readers behind the scenes to share her experiences and insights into what worked and what didn't during her time in diplomacy. She offers valuable lessons and observations on the challenges and opportunities of international relations, as well as the importance of collaboration and compromise.

Overall, 'And Then What?' is a must-read for anyone interested in European politics, international relations, and the role of diplomacy in shaping the world. Cathy Ashton's book provides a unique and valuable perspective on these topics, and her insights are sure to inspire and inform readers for years to come.

Weight: 242g
Dimension: 195 x 130 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783967117