Can the European Union become a major power?

Before reviving the concept of 'Europe as a World Power' the European Union first has to overcome the euro zone crisis that at present is resulting in introspection. If it emerges more united, showing greater solidarity, the European Union might also provide itself with the means to improve its profile in the international arena, increase its strategic autonomy and have greater influence over globalisation. We have to be clear about this: undoubtedly the European Union will never be a traditional Westphalian power with a totally harmonised foreign and defence policy. Good coordination between the Member States (especially between the biggest of them, who still enjoy power status in the international arena) and the authorities in Brussels, together with the support of common, stronger and more refined instruments is the necessary condition for the claim 'Europe as a world power'. Nor can we avoid the issue of the limits of this project: if the Union continues to enlarge, the revival of political Europe based on a more integrated euro zone may come under challenge.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background Information: Think Global - Act European IV - Thinking Strategically about the EU's External Action http://www.europeansources.info/record/think-global-act-european-iv-thinking-strategically-about-the-eus-external-action/

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