FROM THE EURO-MEDITERRANEAN PARTNERSHIP TO THE UNION FOR THE MEDITERRANEAN

Abstract

The Euro-Mediterranean relations advanced at a relatively slow pace and shallow depth under the Cold War dynamics. After the end of the bipolar structure, European strategists found room to revitalize the relations. These efforts culminated in the Barcelona Process, which fell behind in meeting expectation. The latest attempt, the Union for the Mediterranean, confronts severe setbacks in achieving the goals set by the Barcelona Process. Its future depends on the partners’ ability to overcome major weaknesses stemming from the institutional set up and the impact of the Arab-Israeli conflict. Deadlocked by interrupted dialogue, the prospect of cooperation is bleak. The article presents the evolution of the Euro-Mediterranean relations from the Barcelona Process to the Union for the Mediterranean. The first part focuses on the objectives and institutions of the Barcelona Process. Following a brief discussion on the European Union Neighbourhood Policy, the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership- European Union Neighbourhood Policy association and the performance of the former are introduced. Finally, the 2007 Union for the Mediterranean is scrutinized

Keywords

• Barcelona Process, Union for the Mediterranean, Euro-Mediterranean Partnership, European Union Neighbourhood Policy, EU institutions.