European Parliamentary Research Service Blog
European defence policy
The role of armed forces in the fight against coronavirus
While armed forces may find it difficult to distance themselves from what is perceived as their primary mission, the coronavirus pandemic largely challenges society’s vision of their role. This has been showcased through the vital contributions of the military to civilian authorities’ responses to contain and stop the spread of coronavirus. Continue reading
3 Key Questions on European Defence
The Treaty of Lisbon established the European Union’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) which substituted the former European Security and Defence Policy. The main aim of the CSDP is the promotion of security and peace. One of its key goals is to establish common European defence capabilities, but not necessarily a European army, as is often rumoured.
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What role in European defence for a post-Brexit United Kingdom?
Despite the recent turmoil in Britain’s defence establishment, it is in both the European Union and the United Kingdom’s interest to continue to have a deeply interlinked defence partnership. Continue reading
EU policies – Delivering for citizens: Security and defence [Policy Podcast]
Security and defence policy in the European Union is predominantly a competence of the Member States. At the same time, a common security and defence policy, which could progressively lead to a European defence union, is enshrined in the Lisbon Treaty. Continue reading
European Defence Fund: Multiannual financial framework 2021-2027 [EU Legislation in Progress]
In June 2018, the European Commission presented a legislative proposal on a European Defence Fund, including a budget allocation of €13 billion in current prices for the 2021 to 2027 period. Continue reading
EU space programme [EU Legislation in Progress]
In June 2018, the European Commission proposed a total budget allocation of €16 billion to finance space activities during the 2021-2027 period. Continue reading
2018 NATO summit: A critical time for European defence
On 11 and 12 July 2018 the NATO Heads of State and Government will meet in Brussels for the 28th NATO summit. The summit comes at a time of tension in transatlantic relations, but also of continuing threats and challenges posed to the alliance. Continue reading
European defence industrial development programme (EDIDP) [EU Legislation in Progress][Policy podcast]
The European Union is facing new security threats amid growing uncertainty about the reliability of some of its allies. As a consequence, it has embarked on a general scaling-up of its defence capabilities. Continue reading
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