Determining Factors for EU Military Intervention
Abstract
The United States has long urged greater contributions to regional security by its allies. Given the Obama administration's shift in emphasis to Asia, it is reasonable for the United States to urge the European Union (EU) to play a greater role in regional security. However, arguing for a greater role does not produce actual commitments. Hence, an important question for U.S. military planners is as follows: When will the EU actually commit forces to regional security missions? An analysis of EU security policy and military engagement decisions identifies the core factors that persuade EU members to approve regional security missions. The three EU military engagement case studies chosen for this monograph are the 2006 EU military operation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (EUFOR RD Congo), the EU decision not to commit forces to Lebanon in 2006, and the EU decision to enforce a maritime zone off the coast of Somalia in 2008 (EUNAVFOR Atalanta). These case studies were selected because they illustrate the recent maturation of EU security policy, which has evolved to embrace regional security missions. The case studies show that there are specific conditions that must apply before the EU makes a decision to intervene. There must be clear EU interests involved; an international basis for mission legitimacy; and a willingness on the part of Britain, France, and Germany to provide operational leadership. In addition, the EU will not intervene in open armed hostilities; that is, the intervention will enforce a settlement, it will not produce a settlement. Understanding the criteria that must be met before the EU considers undertaking military operations can help U.S. strategic and operational planners develop "economy of force" approaches that complement both U.S. and EU interests. The analysis also can provide a common frame of reference for senior U.S. decision makers concerning the EU's aspirations to be a credible global security player.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 23, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA589624
Entities
People
- Robert S. Perry
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College