The Trade-Security Nexus in EU External Action: A Practice Approach

This book explores the interactions between trade policy and foreign and security policy in EU external action, based on in-depth interviews with EU officials and diplomats. It reconstructs and analyzes the institutional cultures of the Directorate-General for Trade and the European External Action Service, their policy practices, and their impact on EU external action.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 199 pages
Publication date: 13 January 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate interplay between trade policy and foreign and security policy in EU external action, presenting it as a complex nexus of practices. Through extensive empirical research, encompassing over 50 in-depth interviews with EU officials, members of the European Parliament, and member state diplomats, the book reconstructs and analyzes the distinct institutional cultures of the Directorate-General for Trade and the European External Action Service. It sheds light on their policy practices and their profound impact on EU external action. This scholarly work appeals to scholars of political science and international relations, offering valuable insights into the dynamics and complexities of EU foreign policy.

Introduction:
The European Union (EU) is a global actor with a significant presence in international affairs. Its external action, driven by a combination of trade policy and foreign and security policy, aims to promote its interests, values, and norms on a global scale. This book explores the intricate relationships and dynamics between trade policy and foreign and security policy in EU external action, shedding light on the practices, institutions, and outcomes of this complex nexus.
Theoretical Framework:
The book adopts a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from political science, international relations, and economics to analyze the interactions between trade policy and foreign and security policy in EU external action. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the institutional and policy frameworks within which these policies are formulated and implemented. The book also examines the role of power, interests, and ideology in shaping these interactions and their impact on EU external action.
Methodology:
To gather empirical data, the book conducted in-depth interviews with a diverse range of stakeholders, including EU officials, members of the European Parliament, and member state diplomats. These interviews were designed to explore the perspectives, experiences, and insights of these individuals regarding the interactions between trade policy and foreign and security policy in EU external action. The interviews were conducted in a confidential and respectful manner, ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of the participants.
Findings:
The book's findings reveal a complex and multifaceted relationship between trade policy and foreign and security policy in EU external action. It highlights the interdependence and interconnectedness of these policies, as well as the challenges and opportunities they present. The book identifies several key themes and trends that shape these interactions, including the role of trade in promoting peace and security, the impact of trade agreements on EU foreign policy, and the challenges of balancing trade interests with security concerns.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the interactions between trade policy and foreign and security policy in EU external action. It offers valuable insights into the practices, institutions, and outcomes of this complex nexus, which are crucial for understanding EU's role in the global arena. The book's findings have implications for policymakers, scholars, and practitioners interested in EU foreign policy and international relations.

Weight: 332g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030907983
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022