The Politics of Third Countries in EU Security and Defence: Norway, Brexit and Beyond

The book explores EU-third country security and defense cooperation, particularly post-Brexit, highlighting the challenges and complexities of building partnerships in a changing geopolitical landscape. It offers insights into the factors that influence cooperation and the potential for integration, raising important questions about the future of European security and defense.

Format: Hardback
Length: 77 pages
Publication date: 17 May 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate realm of security and defense cooperation between the European Union (EU) and third countries, with a special focus on the United Kingdom (UK) and Norway. The aftermath of Brexit has brought forth a renewed emphasis on third-party engagement, particularly in light of the UK's pivotal role as a security and defense actor and the challenges faced by both sides in establishing cooperative terms in this domain. The book explores why the apparent necessity for cooperation and shared strategic interests alone does not guarantee seamless collaboration or integration between the EU and like-minded third countries. By incorporating a theoretical and conceptual framework, it offers valuable insights into the potentialities and limitations of European security and defense cooperation during challenging times. Furthermore, it raises critical questions about the nature and appropriateness of the existing security and defense architecture in Europe, as well as the role of non-EU members within it. This book is of utmost interest to academics and students engaged in the study of European politics, EU security, and security and defense studies.

Introduction:
The European Union (EU) has been a driving force in promoting security and defense cooperation among its member states and third countries. The EU's membership in NATO and its involvement in various international security organizations have contributed to its role as a global security actor. However, the Brexit process has placed the question of third-party engagement firmly back in the spotlight, especially given the UK's significance as a security and defense actor and the failure of both sides to agree terms for cooperation in this area.

The Need for Cooperation:
The EU and third countries share common interests in promoting stability, security, and peace in the world. The EU's membership in NATO and its participation in various international security organizations provide a framework for cooperation and coordination in the face of common threats. Cooperation between the EU and third countries can also help to address regional and global challenges such as terrorism, cybercrime, and climate change.

Challenges to Cooperation:
Despite the apparent need for cooperation, there are several challenges that hinder the EU and third countries from achieving seamless collaboration. One of the main challenges is the different political and strategic perspectives of the EU and third countries. The EU is a complex organization with a centralized decision-making process, while third countries may have their own national interests and priorities. This can lead to disagreements and tensions in the cooperation process.

The Role of the UK:
The UK is a key player in European security and defense cooperation. As a member of the EU and NATO, the UK has played a significant role in shaping the EU's security and defense policies. The UK's departure from the EU has raised concerns about the future of European security and defense cooperation. The UK's decision to leave the EU has also impacted the EU's ability to coordinate with third countries on security and defense issues.

The Failure to Agree Terms:
The failure of both sides to agree terms for cooperation in the area of security and defense has highlighted the importance of finding a common ground. The UK's decision to leave the EU has created uncertainty and instability in the region, and the EU's desire to maintain close ties with the UK has led to negotiations on the future of security and defense cooperation. However, these negotiations have been slow and complex, and there is still no clear resolution in sight.

Conclusion:
The book examines security and defense cooperation between the EU and third countries, in particular the United Kingdom and Norway. Brexit has placed the question of third-party engagement firmly back in the spotlight, especially given the UK's significance as a security and defense actor, and the failure of both sides to agree terms for cooperation in this area. The book explains why the seemingly obvious need for cooperation and shared strategic interests alone does not lead to frictionless cooperation or integration between the EU and like-minded third countries. Adding a theoretical and conceptual depth to what is still largely an empirical topic, it draws important conclusions about the possibilities and limits of European security and defense cooperation during challenging times. It also raises key questions about the nature and suitability of the pre-existing security and defense architecture in Europe, and the place of non-EU members within it. The book will appeal to academics and students interested in European politics, EU security, and security and defense studies.

Weight: 265g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031009389
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022