In October 2019, Josep Borrell emphasized the need for the EU to speak the language of power, while Ursula von der Leyen vowed to lead a geopolitical Commission. Recent years have seen the EU take significant strides in this direction, responding to global challenges like the pandemic and conflicts in Ukraine.
Despite not being inherently built as a geopolitical power, the EU has made progress in defense, economics, and strategic autonomy. Collaborative efforts have been evident in areas such as defense industry coordination, economic security strategies, and actions like supporting Ukraine with weaponry.
Experts believe the EU is undergoing a fundamental shift, with a collective push towards stronger European sovereignty and unity in the face of a changing global landscape dominated by power struggles between major players like the US, China, and Russia.
While challenges like diverging member state priorities persist, the EU is working towards a more cohesive stance on issues like internal market reforms and competitiveness to boost its position as a global economic and geopolitical force.
Overall, the EU’s journey to becoming a significant player on the world stage is a complex and ongoing process, but recent developments signal a willingness to adapt and evolve in the face of increasing geopolitical pressures.
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