EU external representation in conflict resolution: When does the Presidency or the High Representative speak for Europe?

Who speaks for Europe is a major question in European integration, yet few systematic attempts have been made to study when the Presidency or the High Representative represents the European Union. This article uses two most-similar cases of conflict resolution with significant EU involvement to argue that the size of the Presidency matters. Large member states have more diplomatic resources and political experience. They were therefore less inclined to rely on the High Representative and his/her staff. The High Representative, on the other hand, had greater difficulties to compete with large member states for media attention and for third party recognition.

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