Europeanization of Defense: Prospects of Consensus?
Abstract
The concept of Europeanization of defense has seen renewed interest in the last few years. However, there are many important differences in security views that are of special importance because the European system of states requires a real consensus to change the current security and defense structure. This discussion distinguishes four models: the European approach, the two pillar approach, the transnational cooperation approach, and the diffusion approach. Whether any of these approaches has a chance of realization may be explored by an examination of: (1) the motives, impulses, and aims behind the general public debate; (2) the attitudes of European elites; (3) the general political-strategic interests of important European states; and (4) the history of efforts toward Europeanization. The variety of incentives and motives behind the goal of Europeanization can hardly lead to a consensus for the first of the models: Controversial ideas exist about the differences with the United States in the overall strategy toward the East; it is uncertain whether Europe has enough resources to play a much more self-sufficient role in defense matters; there is no common threat perception, and different understandings and assessments of the general idea of deterrence characterize the debate.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 07, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA154869
Entities
People
- Philipp Schmidt
Organizations
- RAND Corporation