Brookings: Topics - Europe

Protecting Putin's Protection Racket

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When Putin took power in 2000, he established a protection deal among powerful business owners. Clifford Gaddy and Barry Ickes discuss the intricacies of this arrangement and what message a recent suit against one of the country’s leading business newspapers is meant to send.

Around the Halls: 20 Years After the Berlin Wall Fell

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

November 9 marks the twenty-year anniversary of the opening of the Berlin Wall. With protests in the week prior totaling over one million, refugees were allowed to exit directly through crossing points between East Berlin and West Berlin and all along the border. In the days and weeks to follow the Wall would continue to fall, leading the way for Germany’s reunification. Experts from around the halls of Brookings respond to this historic anniversary.

The Four Who Ended the Cold War

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The twentieth anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall on Monday has become for many a celebration of Ronald Reagan’s starring role in the demise of the Evil Empire, writes Brookings President Strobe Talbott. But, he says, it was a group of four who ended the Cold War peacefully: Reagan, Mikhail Gorbachev, Boris Yeltsin and the calm—and calming—"air traffic controller" George H.W. Bush.

Towards a Post-American Europe: A Power Audit of EU-U.S. Relations

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jeremy Shapiro and Nick Witney examine transatlantic relations in what they call a "post-American world" that is witnessing increasingly redistributed power. Shapiro and Witney argue that the real threat to the transatlantic relationship comes not from the remaking of America's global strategy, but from European governments' failure to come to terms with how the world is changing.

The European Union’s Eastern Partnership, Energy Security and U.S.-EU Cooperation

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 02, 2009, 1:30 PM to 5:45 PM

On November 2, the Center on United States and Europe and the Energy Security Initiative at Brookings co-hosted a conference on the European Union’s Eastern Partnership with the Embassy of Poland, the Delegation of the European Commission, the Embassy of Sweden and the Heinrich Boll Foundation. The Frontiers of Europe conference discussed the Eastern Partnership’s potential—and the challenges it will face—in achieving its stated goals of promoting democratic values and good governance; strengthening energy security; and fostering stability and economic development.

The Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Since 2004 there have been encouraging trends related to internal displacement. Walter Kälin notes that the use of the Guiding Principles as the relevant framework for protecting IDPs and the development of national and regional laws and policies on internal displacement have been positive trends. However, despite such positive trends, the challenges presented by climate change, the disregard for civilian populations in conflict zones, a shrinking humanitarian space, and protracted displacement situations still remain unchanged.

Jean Pisani-Ferry on the Transatlantic Economy After the Global Financial Crisis

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 17:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 26, 2009, 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

On October 26, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted Jean Pisani-Ferry, a leading French economist, to deliver the Sixth Annual Raymond Aron Lecture. Mr. Pisani-Ferry assessed the impact of the global financial crisis on the closely intertwined economies of Europe and the United States, and their influence on the world economy.

Bruxelles: è il momento di fare in fretta

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Lisbon Treaty has raised many questions regarding governance of the European Union. Federiga Bindi explains why she believes European Council will use its October meeting to choose the new European Commission.

Vice President Biden Travels to Central Europe

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Vice President Biden left Washington early on October 20 for a quick trip to Central Europe, where he will reassure the region of continued U.S. interest and support. Steven Pifer examines the concerns of several NATO member states and offers suggestions for the future of U.S. engagement in the area.

"Coping" with the G-20: Italy and the Challenge of Global Governance

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Replacing the G8 with the G-20 poses a delicate issue for smaller G8 countries, such as Italy. Some fear this move will dilute their perceived role and influence in the world stage. Domenico Lombardi discusses the dynamics of the G-20's more diverse membership and what role Italy can realistically pursue in an "enlarged" global governance setting.

The European Union, Lisbon and the Office Hunt

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Lisbon Treaty finally secured Irish ratification on October 2, but there are still many obstacles to overcome before the EU can put Lisbon into action. The treaty is not yet fully ratified and many key details, including the selection of leaders to fill the High Representative and EU President posts, remain unresolved. Federiga Bindi explains why Lisbon is important, and describes the intricate negotiation process the EU will undergo in coming months.

The European Union’s Destiny After the Irish Vote on the Lisbon Treaty

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 11:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 05, 2009, 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

The Irish recently ratified the Lisbon Treaty, a far-reaching reorganization of the European Union (EU). On October 5, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings and the Heinrich Böll Foundation hosted a panel of experts to discuss the expected changes in the European Union and the implications for the United States.

Global Trends and Shocks in the National Security Environment: Russia and Eurasia

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this chapter of Fighting Chance, prepared for a September 2007 conference, Steven Pifer assesses potential challenges posed by a more assertive Russia. Pifer examines demographic, societal and economic trends in Russia that could create strategic shocks for the region and world over the next several decades.

Al Qaeda's New Charm Offensive in Europe

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Osama bin Laden and Mullah Omar recently delivered messages warning Europe about the perils of staying in Afghanistan. After speaking with French officials while in Paris, Bruce Riedel concludes that NATO ally France understands the stakes and will stay in Afghanistan if America stays.

A Better Base for Cutting Nuclear Weapons

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama's decision to rethink and revamp the plan for Poland-based defenses against Iranian missiles was met with some criticism at home and in Eastern Europe for giving too much to Russia. However, argues Brookings President Strobe Talbott, the new strategy is a pragmatic step to counter Iran's real short-range missile threat, strengthens the transatlantic alliance, and better serves the goals of U.S.-Russian strategic arms reduction.

Comparing the Recessions in Germany and the United States

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:54:35 GMT

The world recession that began in the U.S. is hitting Germany much harder than us, due to a collapse in world trade that has damaged an economy that Germans constantly refer to as “the World Export Champion.” But, Douglas Elliott explains, Germans feel much better about their economic situation than Americans do about ours.

Report of the Representative of the Secretary-General on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Internal displacement continues to be one of the world's major humanitarian and human rights challenges and many internally displaced persons (IDPs) experience serious violations of their human rights. In his annual report to the UN General Assembly, Walter Kälin argues that it is important to translate the increasing recognition of the human rights dimension of internal displacement at the international and regional levels into effective action at the national and local levels of government.

Germany’s Recession vs. America’s: Doing Worse, but Feeling Better

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The global recession is damaging Germany twice as much as the nation where it started—the United States. This is due to a collapse in world trade that has hurt Germany’s economy thanks to its reliance on exports as its economic engine. Douglas Elliott is intrigued by the differing reactions between the two nations and why the German public and elites feel much better about their situation than Americans do about theirs.

Turkey, Russia and Regional Energy Strategies

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 09:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 15, 2009, 9:30 AM to 3:45 PM

On July 15, the Center on the United States and Europe and the Energy Security Initiative at Brookings hosted leading experts from Turkey, Russia and Europe for a conference focusing on Turkey’s and Russia’s roles in European energy security and the role of energy in shaping cooperation and stability in neighboring regions.

The G8: From Trieste to L’Aquila

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Binda believes the recent G8 foreign ministers meeting in Trieste has set the stage for pragmatic and operative discussions at the upcoming G8 summit. Bindi examines key issues of the debate including Afghanistan, nuclear proliferation and the future role of the European Union in global governance.

Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons in Serbia

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It is positive, and a clear step forward, that Serbian authorities like the Serbian Commissioner for Refguees have started programs to help IDPs leave collective centers, move to their own houses, and regain their livelihoods. Yet, as Walter Kälin points out in an address to the Parliament of Serbia, bureaucratic obstacles continue to make it unnecessarily difficult for many IDPs to access public services.

Islam, Jihadism, and Depoliticization in France and Germany

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pressures from within, Islam, and without, globalization and European integration, have made Germans and the French feel apprehensive about their national identity and culture. Anouar Boukhard analyzes the challenges both nations face today: defining what kinds of values are essential for their countries’ secular model of society and what kinds are negotiable.

Protracted Displacement in Europe

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Over the last few years, the internal displacement situation in Europe has remained stagnant. Europe continues to have more than 2.5 million IDPs, over 99% of whom find themselves in situations of protracted displacement. In order to improve the situation of IDPs in Europe, Walter Kälin argues that both the adoption of the Draft Resolution before the Parliamentary Assembly as well as a national laws and policies "would radically change the fate of these forgotten people."

Climate Change, Natural Disasters, and Internal Displacement

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

An estimated 50-200 million people may move by the middle of the century as a result of the negative effects of climate change, either within their countries or across borders, on a permanent or temporary basis. While some of this movement may be voluntary, some of it will not. Walter Kälin points out that there are significant differences in both groups' situations and the responses to their migrations must also be different.

Foresight USA Symposium

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 18, 2009, 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM
June 19, 2009, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

On June 18 and 19, 2009, the Foresight project held its second major regional symposium in Washington, D.C. Organized by the Alfred Herrhausen Society in partnership with Policy Network and the Brookings Institution, it provided a unique opportunity to advance the task of forging a new global consensus on the shape of the emerging world order and the role of the United States within it.

Economic Crisis, Political Rebound: The State of the European Union in 2009

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 11, 2009, 2:30 PM to 5:45 PM

In the largest transnational elections ever, millions of voters across the 27 nations of the European Union (EU) went to the polls from June 4-7 to elect the 736 members of the European parliament. On June 11, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings (CUSE) and the Heinrich Böll Foundation hosted a discussion of the political and economic challenges of the European Union.

U.S.-European Union Cooperation on Climate Change

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

At a recent climate change gathering in Bonn, some Europeans criticized American positions as lacking sufficient ambition to address the climate crisis. Can the U.S. and Europe get past old disagreements and turn a new page? William Antholis—in Germany to address the conference of climate change experts—charted out a new course for transatlantic cooperation on climate issues.

Europe After Five Months of the Obama Administration

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When President Barack Obama visits the Buchenwald concentration camp site on June 5 and the Normandy beaches on June 6, he will celebrate both the transatlantic alliance and Europe's reconciliation and unity that emerged from these searing events. Justin Vaisse, whose grandfather was liberated from the concentration camp at Buchenwald by units of Patton's Third Army—in which Obama's great uncle served—reflects on the Europe-America relationship.

Strategies for Engagement: 2009 CUSE Annual Conference

Fri, 29 May 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 29, 2009, 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM

On May 29, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings (CUSE) will host experts and officials from both sides of the Atlantic for the 2009 CUSE Annual Conference to examine the prospect of engagement with Iran and Russia, and how to deal with groups such as Hamas and the Taliban.

The Political Implications of the Economic Crisis for the European Union

Wed, 20 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse assesses the risks of seeing the European Union or the Eurozone break up because of the economic crisis. Far from this outcome, Vaisse surveys the reasons why Europe will resist and predicts that it will eventually bounce back to become a stronger union

The Transatlantic Partnership in a Post-Economic Crisis World: An Address by Valdis Zatlers, President of Latvia

Fri, 15 May 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 15, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

While it is difficult to see beyond the current economic crisis, some reshuffling of global economic power is inevitable. On May 15, the Center on the United States and Europe (CUSE) at Brookings hosted Latvian President Valdis Zatlers for a discussion of the increased importance of the transatlantic partnership in the years ahead.

Europe - Etats-Unis: accords / désaccords

Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While the election of Barack Obama facilitates the transatlantic dialogue, profound structural differences remain between Europe and America—including geography, distinct roles in the international system and contrasted relationship to military force. Justin Vaisse believes this is why Europe and America should not count on "shared values" but on serious diplomatic bargaining to resolve their differences. (in French)

Lord Christopher Patten: The Challenges of Multilateralism for Europe, Turkey and the United States

Tue, 05 May 2009 10:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 05, 2009, 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM

The Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosts Lord Christopher Patten for the fifth annual Sakip Sabanci Lecture. In his address, Lord Patten will discuss how Turkey, Europe and the United States can realize opportunities for multilateral cooperation in confronting the global challenges of the 21st century.

Europe's Problematic Contribution to Police Training in Afghanistan

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi argues that the recent NATO summit provided Europe with an opportunity to fulfill promises and contribute to a successful outcome in Afghanistan. Since the solution in Afghanistan will need more than military success, Bindi outlines ways in which Europe can contribute to building governance and rule-of-law structures.

Europe 2030

Fri, 01 May 2009 12:00:00 GMT

In Europe 2030 a group of distinguished authors look ahead and deliver their predictions on what Europe will look like twenty years from now. With great insight and drawing on deep reservoirs of experience, they illuminate the European Union's current strengths and weaknesses by imagining its future development.

Is America the New France? How President Obama's Policies are Transforming the United States

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 11:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 28, 2009, 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

On April 28, the Brookings Institution hosted a discussion to assess the scope and meaning of the Obama Administration's policies, to examine whether or not they are moving towards a model of European social democracy.

What Europe Can Do for Iraq: A Blueprint for Action

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To explore the strategies by which Europe can increase its commitment in Iraq and make a constructive difference, the Center on the U.S. and Europe and the Heinrich Böll Foundation convened a workshop in April 2009. In this paper, Justin Vaisse and Sebastian Gräfe summarize the consolidated advice advocated by the workshop participants.

Current Political and Economic Developments in Ukraine

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 22, 2009, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM

On April 22, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Hryhoriy Nemyria for a discussion of the current political and economic developments in Ukraine.

Why Europe Will Emerge Stronger from the Economic Crisis

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Since the economic crisis started, predictions of a break-up of the European Union or the “Eurozone” have multiplied. Justin Vaisse instead contends it is more likely that the crisis will force greater unity and solidarity on Europe, and that the EU will emerge stronger from the downturn.

U.S.-Turkish Relations: A Historic Era?

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 13, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

A positive, constructive relationship with Turkey has never been more important to Europe and the United States. The Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted a panel discussion on the future of U.S.-Turkish relations, with Ömer Taşpınar, director of Brookings’s Turkey Project, and Soli Ozel of Istanbul’s Bilgi University, who presented the findings of a new report published by the Turkish Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association.

President Obama's Trip to Europe and Iraq

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:52:48 GMT

With stops in London for the G-20 Summit, France and Germany for NATO and additional visits to Turkey and Iraq, President Obama has completed his first major trip abroad as the nation’s leader. Darrell West examines the president’s overseas meetings and the impact they’ll have on his policies.

Obama Sees Turkey's Influence and Value

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

During President Obama's recent trip to Turkey, former national security adviser Samuel Berger and Brookings visiting fellow Mark Parris wrote that Turkey is worth the time and effort. Though the U.S. and Turkey cannot expect their strategic partnership to be seamless, Turkey can play an important role from Afghanistan to the Middle East and into Europe.

Voyage d'Obama : l'heure du bilan

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse assesses President Obama's trip to Europe and analyzes the new branding of America's image abroad. (French)

Barack Obama's First NATO Summit

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 15:20:20 GMT

As NATO celebrates its 60th anniversary, Visiting Fellow Steven Pifer says the alliance has serious business to conduct. President Obama and other alliance leaders will address issues of critical importance including unrest in Afghanistan and Russia’s relationship with its neighbors.

President Obama's Visit to Turkey

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 11:52:21 GMT

President Obama will visit Turkey this week seeking to forge stronger ties with its government. Ömer Taşpınar, director of the Turkey Project at Brookings, says the president is making a strategic move that could bode well for the two countries.

The Scouting Report: 60th Anniversary NATO Summit

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 01, 2009, 12:30 PM to 01:30 PM

During his trip to Europe this week, President Obama will attend the NATO Summit where leaders will celebrate its 60th anniversary. Brookings expert Steven Pifer and Senior Politico Editor Fred Barbash previewed the summit and analyzed what Obama wants to accomplish in Europe in this week's web chat.

What can Europe do for Iraq?

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 01, 2009, 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM

On April 1, the Center on the U.S. and Europe and the Heinrich Böll Foundation convened a workshop to explore the strategies by which Europe can increase its commitment in Iraq and make a constructive difference.

Tackling NATO's Challenges

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 30, 2009, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM

When President Barack Obama and NATO leaders met in early April to celebrate the NATO alliance’s 60th anniversary, they also confronted the daunting challenges facing NATO today. Prior to the event, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings held a public discussion to preview President Obama’s first NATO summit.

Time for Turkey to Reward Obama

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Omer Taspinar discusses President Obama's upcoming visit to Turkey and how it relates to his pledge to recognize the Armenian genocide. Though the Armenian issue could shake U.S.-Turkish relations, Taspinar argues that Ankara should reward Obama for his visionary approach to the region.

Letter From London: One Market, Many Peoples

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the United Kingdom, backlash against workers from other countries in the European Union is growing. Jeremy Shapiro discusses how measures to limit foreign labor may threaten the future of the European common market.

Q&A: Prime Minister Gordon Brown's Washington Agenda

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Prime Minister Gordon Brown visits Washington this week to push for a “global new deal” to help countries recover from the global financial crisis. In a new Q&A, Brookings’s Eswar Prasad discusses the critical global economic issues for Brown’s Washington agenda.

A New European Security Strategy?

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jeremy Shapiro analyzes Pawel Sieboda's appeal for a new European Security Strategy.

Engaging Ukraine in 2009

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ukraine and Ukrainians will be tested over the course of 2009. Anders Åslund, Jonathan Elkind and Steven Pifer discuss U.S. interests in a successful Ukraine and describe four key challenges currently facing Kyiv. They also offer recommendations for strengthening U.S.-Ukrainian relations and for helping Ukraine to meet these challenges and continue its transformation into a modern, successful European democracy.

How to Improve U.S.-Italy Relations and Why They Matter

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On the occasion of the first meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini, Federiga Bindi discusses the state of Italy-U.S. relations and suggests ways to improve them.

Collective Security in the 21st Century: Building New Bridges

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 23, 2009, 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

On February 23, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted Dora Bakoyannis, Greek foreign minister and Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) chairperson-in-office, for an address on the tasks facing the organization.

A New Start in Transatlantic Relations: The View from the Czech EU Presidency

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 16:00:00 GMT

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February 09, 2009, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM

On February 9, the Center on the U.S. and Europe (CUSE) at Brookings and the Heinrich Böll Foundation hosted Czech Foreign Minister Karel Schwarzenberg for a public address on the transatlantic relationship.

Du bon usage d’Obama en politique française

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse draws on the lessons of the election of Barack Obama – the first African-American president of the U.S. – for France, where very few black or Arab candidates emerge. To the extent the two countries can be compared, particular attention is given to the role of minority districts in the U.S. in fostering a more diverse body of politicians in the last four decades. Such districts don't exist in metropolitan France, but the French political system can easily improve its record by imposing a reform of the initial selection of candidates by the main political parties. (French)

Averting Crisis in Ukraine

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer comprehensively analyzes Ukraine's difficulties, related to both domestic conditions and foreign policy, and recommends ways for the United States to encourage Ukraine on a path of stability and integration with the West.

Global Economic Crisis: Made in America

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

‘Buy American’ provisions may provide job security to some, but Brookings Nonresident Senior Fellow Nayan Chanda says protectionism will stunt global trade. Chanda urges world leaders to stay calm in the face of a raging storm, while trying to stimulate the economy without triggering a new wave of protectionism.

Pour une relation transatlantique désenchantée

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Despite the good will generated by the election of Barack Obama, Justin Vaisse and Thierry Chopin warn against the illusion of a spontaneously harmonious Transtlantic relation. They argue a fundamental policy differences remains between Europe and the U.S., due to geography, political culture, and position in the international system, and a good relationship will depend on hard-nose deals on policies and priorities, not the invocation of “shared values”.

Obama to Europe: Ich bin ein listener

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Barack Obama’s election was greeted with jubilation in many parts of the world, raising hopes that his personal appeal will translate into progress on a range of important issues in which Europeans are essential partners. Kristin Lord and John Glenn caution that Obama's popularity alone may not be enough and that he will have to collaborate with European allies to make potential turn into action.

Europa-USA: il momento della verità

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

After two years of “Europe for Obama”, it’s time to focus on the points of common interest between the new U.S. president and the European Union. Will there be stronger cooperation between the two sides of the Atlantic? What kind of Europe will welcome President Obama next spring? Federiga Bindi offers insights into the future of the U.S.-European relationship under Obama’s leadership.

Sarkozy's Europe is Good for Obama

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi, Charles Kupchan and Justin Vaisse argue that French President Nicolas Sarkozy occasionally overplayed his hand while France held the EU's rotating presidency from July to December 2008. But on balance, they say, his EU leadership provided exactly the kind of international activism that Europeans want and America needs.

The Russia-Ukraine Natural Gas Battle

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following a dispute between Russia and Ukraine, Gazprom halted natural gas shipments through Ukraine, prompting shortages across Europe and growing calls of alarm. In an interview on the Diane Rehm Show, Clifford Gaddy discusses the essence of this dispute and the risks for Russia’s reputation.

Europe's Gas Crisis: Don't Act Surprised

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jonathan Elkind and Edward Chow examine the causes of a chronic gas war between Ukraine and Russia. They offer suggestions for Kiev to push ahead with reform that could help Ukraine receive urgent and coordinated support from Western friends.

History Strikes Back: A Discussion with Hubert Védrine and Madeleine Albright

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

January 06, 2009, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM

On January 6, Brookings welcomed former French Minister of Foreign Affairs Hubert Védrine to present his latest book, History Strikes Back: How States, Nations, and Conflicts Are Shaping the 21st Century (Brookings Institution Press, 2008). Former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright joined the discussion following Mr. Védrine’s remarks.

The Future of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this article, Walter Kälin explains that while it is hard to take an objective view on an enterprise in which you have been closely involved, he thinks that it is fair to say that over the last ten years the Guiding Principles have demonstrated their utility and impact but also their limitations.

Frontiers of Europe

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 16, 2008, 9:00 AM to 6:00:00 PM
December 17, 2008, 9:00 AM to 1:45 PM

On December 16-17, 2008, the Brookings Center on the United States and Europe, Yalta European Strategy and the Victor Pinchuk Foundation hosted a high-level conference in Kyiv, Ukraine as part of the “Frontiers of Europe” project.

Don't Rush Georgia and Ukraine into NATO

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Press reports indicate the Bush administration is pursuing a final bold foreign policy move -- agreeing to offer Georgia and Ukraine rapid membership to NATO by bypassing normal procedures. Michael O'Hanlon argues this is a bad idea, writing it is likely to worsen U.S.-Russia relations and increase the risk of war.

Protracted Displacement in Europe: Perspectives and Solutions

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

While Africa could be considered the continent of internal displacement because it has more than 12 of the roughly 25 million displaced by armed conflict worldwide, Europe, with its estimated 2.5 million internally displaced persons (IDPs), could be called the continent of protracted displacement, since 99% of Europe's remaining displaced fled their homes some 15-25 years ago. In recent years, some governments have taken important steps to improve their situation, but overall the situation of most IDPs remains a cause for concern.

What the G-20 Wants

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

World leaders gathered in Washington, D.C. to respond to the international financial crisis. The Managing Global Insecurity project and The Chicago Council on Global Affairs hosted a special online forum of global perspectives on the summit. The result is an intriguing glimpse into pivotal issues that will continue to dominate discussions about the crisis.

President-elect Obama and Turkey

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Mark Parris notes that a major foreign policy issue for President-elect Barack Obama to address will be repairing the U.S.-Turkish relationship. Parris outlines six key steps that he believes Obama should move quickly on to ensure a well developed Turkey agenda moving forward.

U.S.-Europe Relations: An Address by Bernard Kouchner

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 10:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 12, 2008, 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM

The Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner for an address on renewing transatlantic cooperation with the incoming Obama administration. With France currently holding the rotating presidency of the 27-member European Council, Kouchner focused his remarks on new priorities and approaches for U.S.–European relations.

L'Europe au miroir de Barack Obama

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse discusses the reasons behind Europe’s strong interest in the American Presidential election. (French)

Ukraine, Georgia and MAP – Time for Plan B

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer believes bids by Ukraine and Georgia for NATO membership action plans (MAPs), though strongly supported by the U.S., are likely to fail. Pifer says involved parties should accept that asking for MAPs in December is a recipe for defeat, but also that NATO should make it clear to Russia it cannot draw new lines through Europe.

Who Is Reshaping the World?

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:00:00 GMT

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October 07, 2008, 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

The Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted Thérèse Delpech, director for Strategic Studies at the French Atomic Energy Commission to deliver the Fifth Annual Raymond Aron Lecture. Delpech explored the forces currently redrawing the lines of the international system, from the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction to revisionist powers and globalization. She offered insights into the future of the trans-Atlantic community and the French-American alliance in particular.

Transatlantic Dialogue on Revitalizing the International Security System

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 26, 2008, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
September 27, 2008, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

On September 26-27, 2008 in New York City, the Managing Global Insecurity (MGI) Project, the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) and the Brookings Institution Center on United States and Europe (CUSE) gathered representatives and experts from the United States and across Europe to discuss U.S. and European priorities for reform of the international security system.

Oil for Development: Enhancing the Security of Energy Supply

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

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September 25, 2008, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM

The Energy Security Initiative at Brookings hosted Dr. Petter Nore, Director of the Oil for Development (OfD) program at the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, to discuss OfD operations in Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East.

Italy’s Foreign Policy in the New Millennium

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 15:30:00 GMT

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September 22, 2008, 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

On September 22, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted Franco Frattini, Italy’s minister of foreign affairs, for an address on the new course of the Italy’s foreign policy. In his remarks, Minister Frattini examined Italy’s role as a geographic, political and economic bridge within Europe and beyond. He also discussed Italy’s forthcoming G8 presidency in 2009, its views on recent events in the Caucasus and its role in trying to find a peaceful and sustainable solution to this crisis.

The Odd Couple: The EU and Cuba 1996-2008

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Paul Hare discusses what the European Union policy toward Cuba has achieved, lessons from this relationship, and what role foreign policy plays in a peaceful transition in Cuba.

What Does Russia Want? How Do We Respond?

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer spoke before the George Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M to outline Russia's ambitions in the world, and what the U.S. can do to respond. Pifer believes that U.S. policy must be firm and principled, but it must also treat Russia as more of a partner than a problem going forward.

Muslims in Europe: A Short Introduction

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Recently featured by the Council of Foreign Relations as a "Must Read" on the topic of integrating Islam into European society, this paper by Justin Vaïsse presents the basic facts and issues concerning Muslims in Europe, from a political and sociological perspective, and offers elements of comparison with the United States.

Il peso della storia nella crisi georgiana

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi discusses the recent crisis in Georgia. (Italian)

Italian Domestic Politics: Constraint, Opportunity, or Scapegoat for the Country's European Policy?

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi writes about Italy in regards to European policies and integration.

Russia Moved Due to U.S. Weakness

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Benjamin writes that in addition to the regional consequences of the crisis between Georgia and Russia, the conflict presented challenges for U.S. foreign policy. Benjamin argues that Russia's invasion of Georgia is the result of U.S. and European failure to integrate Russia into the Western sphere and points to the lack of a coherent U.S. foreign policy toward Russia overall.

Russia and the Future

Sun, 17 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the aftermath of the conflict between Russia and Georgia continues to unfold, Michael O'Hanlon offers near-term solutions as well as a longer-term strategy for both countries and the region as a whole. He notes that while Russia's behavior has been inexcusable, the U.S. will still need cooperation on important issues like Iran and North Korea.

The War in Georgia: Assessing the Aftermath

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 10:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

August 14, 2008, 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM

The military clash between Russia and Georgia is one of the most serious crises of the post-Soviet and Cold War era. Daniel Benjamin, director of the Center on the United States and Europe, hosted a panel of foreign policy experts, including Brookings President Strobe Talbott, in a discussion of the implications and possible solutions to the Ossetia conflict.

War in Georgia—End of an Era, Beginning a New Cold War?

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With violence erupting between Georgia and Russia, Johannes Linn analyzes the serious dilemmas confronting both countries and their citizens as well as the consequences for the global community. Linn examines the reemergence of a cold-war mentality, calls for a swift halt of Russia’s military actions and provides recommendations for the world’s response to the conflict.

L’atout d’Obama ? Ne pas être Bush

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview with Libération, Justin Vaisse explored the reasons for Barack Obama’s popularity in Europe and stressed the contrast between political classes on each side of the Atlantic for minority candidates. (French)

Detention of Terrorism Suspects in Britain and France

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Testifying before the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, Jeremy Shapiro explored the system of detaining terrorism suspects in France and the United Kingdom. He noted that the threats and domestic situations in every country are unique and rules for detention must be rooted in pre-existing laws.

The Evolving Transatlantic Agenda

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 11, 2008, 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

In the coming years, European and American leaders will face pressing global challenges such as terrorism, international trade negotiations and climate change, which will require joint action and close collaboration between American and European leaders. On July 11, the Center on the United States and Europe (CUSE) at Brookings hosted Jim Murphy MP, Great Britain’s Minister for Europe, for a discussion of the role of public diplomacy in the new transatlantic agenda.

Iran and U.S. Missile Defense

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ivo Daalder joined Diane Rehm to discuss Iran's test-firing of a series of missiles and the Bush administration's continued pursuit of a Europe-based missile defense shield to counter the threat from Iran.

Europe’s Role in Nation-Building

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 08, 2008, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM

Despite ample experience over the past decade, Western nations are still learning difficult lessons when it comes to nation-building and are still developing the skills needed to address this dauntingly complex task. On July 8, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted James Dobbins, one of the foremost practitioners in the field, for a discussion of a new RAND Corporation study, Europe’s Role in Nation Building: From the Balkans to the Congo.

A New Approach to Missile Defense in Europe

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer addresses the Bush administration's continued desire to install a missile defense system in Europe to counter Iranian weapon threats. Pifer believes that because Iran has not yet developed a missile capable of reaching all of Europe or the U.S., the program's timetable should be slowed to ensure all interested parties, including Russia, are comfortable with the plans.

L’islam en France, « un enjeu social plutôt que religieux »

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Viasse joined L’Orient-Le Jour for a discussion on Islam in France. (French)

L’Italia, attore centrale nei negoziati con l’Iran?

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi discusses Italy’s inclusion in the 5+1 Group and negotiations with Iran. (Italian with translation available)

Ireland's Rejection of the Lisbon Treaty

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Following the rejection of the Lisbon Treaty by Irish voters, Federiga Bindi believes the process should continue on as planned rather than sacking or changing the treaty. Bindi remarks that membership in the European Union is not obligatory and notes Ireland can still co-exist happily without destroying hopes for further integration across the continent.

One Horrible Year for Nicolas Sarkozy

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Just over a year into the presidential term of France's Nicolas Sarkozy, Philip Gordon and Justin Vaisse note that the first year has been a bitter disappointment. Instead of giving up on Sarkozy as a lost cause, they believe there is hope for a recovery if he continues reforms promised during his candidacy. They also argue that the rotating presidency of the European Union, coming to France in July, may foster a new era in transatlantic relations.

Le Conseil français du culte musulman, c'est mieux que rien

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Jonathan Laurence and Justin Vaisse defend the record and the significance of the French Council for the Muslim Religion (CFCM in French) which will be renewed by a vote in mosques across France on June 8. (French)

Nicolas Sarkozy at the Helm of the European Union

Sun, 01 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse outlines what to expect from Nicholas Sarkozy as the European Union’s rotating presidency comes to France this summer. Vaisse notes that Sarkozy faces such challenges as ratifying the Lisbon Treaty, the Turkish candidacy to the EU issue, participation or non-participation in the opening ceremonies of the Beijing Olympic Games, and putting his own agenda on hold among other items.