Brookings: Topics - European Union

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.

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

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 17:00:00 GMT

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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.

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.

Turkey in Europe: Breaking the Vicious Circle

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 23, 2009, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM

On September 23, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings (CUSE) hosted a member of the Independent Commission on Turkey, Nobel Peace Laureate and former President of Finland Martti Ahtisaari, for a discussion of the new report, “Turkey in Europe: Breaking the Vicious Circle.”

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.

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

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:30:00 GMT

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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.

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)

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.

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.

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.

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)

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.

After the Fall: Re-asserting the IMF in the Face of Global Crisis

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Under the pressure of the current crisis, the international community is carving out a new role for the IMF. Among Domenico Lombardi's recommendations is making the decision-making system more transparent and inclusive.

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.

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.

Crisis in Eastern Europe: Manageable – But Needs to Be Managed

Sat, 28 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a new opinion article, Erik Berglöf makes recommendations to EU leaders on how to stave off a further deepening of the financial crisis in the emerging economies of Eastern Europe, addressing capital demands and the role of banks.

In Search of Lost Time: Turkey-U.S. Relations after Bush

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The past eight years witnessed a sharp evolution of the Turkey-US relationship, but a change in rhetoric substance was ushered in with the second Bush administration that eventually came to the rescue. Sinan Ülgen argues the election of Barack Obama provides an opportunity for Ankara and Washington to put behind their differences decisively and to concentrate on advancing a more ambitious transatlantic agenda.

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

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 16:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

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.

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.

Europe, the United States, and Middle Eastern Democracy: Repairing the Breach

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama may enjoy a transatlantic honeymoon, but U.S.-European differences over Middle East policy—stemming mainly from the war in Iraq—leave deep scars in the relationship that he must now overcome. In a new Saban Center Analysis Paper, Tamara Cofman Wittes and Richard Youngs look beyond this highly charged deterioration in the transatlantic relationship in order to assess the real prospects for cooperation in promoting democracy in the Middle East.

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.

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.

Between Scylla and Charybdis: The Future of the European Union

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 10:00:00 GMT

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October 17, 2008, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

The Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted Giuliano Amato, the former Italian prime minister and vice president of the European Constitutional Convention, to deliver the First Annual Altiero Spinelli Lecture. Amato explored the future of the European Union, looking at its internal evolution after the rejection of the Lisbon Treaty, and at its international role in light of the forthcoming American elections and the turbulence on Europe’s eastern borders.

Transatlantic Dialogue on Revitalizing the International Security System

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 12:00:00 GMT

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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.

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.

U.S.-Turkish Relationship: What's Wrong with This Picture?

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Mark Parris spoke before the Rochester Committee on Foreign Relations to discuss why Turkey is important to the U.S., how relations between the U.S. and Turkey have gone so wrong in recent years, and what can be done about it.

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.

Securing Georgia

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The military conflict between Russia and Georgia over two breakaway regions has subsided, but continues on in strained relations between Russia and western powers, including the United States. Carlos Pascual and Steven Pifer propose a 10-point plan to monitor events on the ground in Georgia, mobilize NATO and the UN, and enforce international law.

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.

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.

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.

Nicolas Sarkozy’s Foreign Policy: Gaullist by Any Other Name

Sun, 01 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse examines Nicolas Sarkozy's foreign policy compared to Gaullist and Atlanticist leaders of the past in France.

U.S.-Europe Relations: What Role for NATO?

Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ivo Daalder joins The Economist to speak about the evolving nature of NATO. The diffusion of American power and how the organization needs to handle the Kremlin are among several topics discussed.

Georgia: Between Bucharest and Brussels

Wed, 07 May 2008 16:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 07, 2008, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM

On May 7, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings (CUSE) hosted Nino Burjanadze, speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, to discuss issues likely to arise in the next six months, including Georgia’s bid to enter NATO and other Euro-Atlantic institutions, its democratic transformation, the upcoming parliamentary elections and escalating tensions with Russia over the separatist regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

Compound Democracies: The Growing Similarities Between the U.S. and Europe

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 29, 2008, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

According to Sergio Fabbrini, professor of political science at Italy’s Trento University, the differences between U.S. and European democracies are diminishing—the result of regional integration in Europe over the last 60 years. The political systems of the European Union and U.S. now represent two species of the same political genus: the compound democracy. On April 29, the Center on the United States and Europe hosted Professor Fabbrini for a discussion of compound democracies and the growing similarities between the U.S. and Europe.

Italian Elections and Silvio Berlusconi

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi analyzes Silvio Berlusconi's recent return to power following elections where he won with an overwhelming majority. Bindi argues that the elections will have a lasting impact on Italy's future.

What’s Wrong With the European Union and How to Fix It

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 15:30:00 GMT

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April 16, 2008, 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

The Center on the United States and Europe hosted Simon Hix to discuss his new book What's Wrong with the European Union and How to Fix It. Visiting Fellow Federiga Bindi moderated the event.

Recent Developments in Turkey’s Economy

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

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April 11, 2008, 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM

On April 11, the Center on the United States and Europe (CUSE) at Brookings welcomed Turkish Minister of State Mehmet Simsek for an address on the Turkish economy.

The Return of Silvio Berlusconi: Italy on the Eve of General Elections (Again)

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 15:30:00 GMT

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April 10, 2008, 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

Prior to the re-election of Silvio Berlusconi, Daniel Benjamin, Director of the Brookings Center on the United States and Europe, moderated a discussion with two Italian political experts: Maurizio Molinari, U.S. correspondent of La Stampa and Federiga Bindi, Visiting Fellow at the Brookings Institution to preview the election and discuss the recent evolution of Italian politics and foreign policy.

Challenges of Stabilization and Reform in the Caucasus

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 07, 2008, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

The Center on the United States and Europe and the Georgian Foundation for Strategic and International Studies organized and hosted this event on April 6 - 7 in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Le pari de la défense européenne mérite d'être tenté

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse and Pierre Haski debate what type of leader French president Nicolas Sarkozy is in historical context. (French)

Sarkozy, le gaulliste décomplexé

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse and Pierre Haski debate what type of leader French president Nicolas Sarkozy is in historical context. (French)

Political and Strategic Consequences of the French White Paper

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Christopher S. Chivvis and Etienne de Durand discuss the upcoming April 2008 French White Paper on Defense and how it will set a new direction of French security policy for the next decade.

Le revirement de Nicolas Sarkozy sur l'Europe

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse discusses the upcoming French presidency of the European Union. (French)

Productivity and Potential Growth in the United States and Europe

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

At the request of the European Central Bank, Martin N. Baily presented his work at a conference in Frankfurt, in January 2008. His work examined productivity and potential growth in the United States and the European Union for the whole economy and by industry. This is a PDF of Martin Bailey's PowerPoint presentation.

Challenges in French-Turkish Relations from Chirac to Sarkozy

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The election of Nicolas Sarkozy brought with it new challenges for French-Turkish relations. Justin Vaisse explores these challenges and offers ideas for both sides to resolve their issues with one another.

The 'China Honeymoon' is Over

Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

David Shambaugh examines current and future relationship between the European Union and China. He asserts the EU's negative perspective of China can be attributed to China's outsourcing practices, discriminatory trade politices, and human rights perspective.

Recipe for European Climate Leadership

Sat, 17 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Climate change policies require thoughtful decision making to avert catastrophic damage to the Earth. Nigel Purvis argues that "despite the obvious need for urgent action, patient and adaptive European diplomacy will best serve the world."

Technical Difficulties

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Robert Crandall discusses telecommunications regulatory policies in the European Union and critiques a proposal to enforce functional separation on the broadband market.

Europe is Still on the Agenda

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Phil Gordon discusses the importance of the European agenda for the United States. He argues that although the Europe has not received as much attention as other regions of the world, the U.S. must confront several European issues (Kosovo, Turkey, NATO, and Russia) to bridge the 'transatlantic rift.'

European Mediators and Ukraine's Orange Revolution

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Pifer retraces the events of November-December 2004, analyzes the role of the European mediators, and offers steps the European Union can take to ensure that it can rener equally effective assistance in future political crises.

Nicolas Sarkozy: The Hyperpresident

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The French are supposed to be resistant to change, but it would be wrong to assume that Nicolas Sarkozy – their new, reform-minded president – will fail. Elected on a pledge to make a “clean break” with the past, he might not get everything he wants but he is already transforming his country. And don’t expect him to back down easily.

Iran Sanctions and Regional Security

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The Bush Administration has issued sweeping new sanctions against Iran and its Revolutionary Guard. Philip Gordon told a congressional committee that there are no guarantees that the Iranian regime will stop its nuclear enrichment, but America must increase economic and diplomatic pressure while holding out the possibility of a better future for the Iranian people if Iran is willing to compromise.

France Learns How to Say Yes

Sun, 30 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Nicolas Sarkozy’s presidency marks a mini-revolution in French foreign policy. His avowedly pro-American administration is getting tough on Iran, considering reintegration with NATO, and asking how it can help in Iraq. The Sarkozy era is an opportunity to remake relations between France and the United States.

The Future of American Multilateralism

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Brookings Senior Fellow Philip Gordon and Edward Joseph, visiting scholar at SAIS, note that attention is once again on the U.S. as presidential elections near. They argue that "when Europeans show themselves to be responsible, capable partners, they bolster multilateralists in America."

The Future of Europe: Reform or Decline

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 11:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 21, 2007, 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

As global economic, trade, and social policies face new challenges, Western Europe considers reforms to keep it competitive. Some economists believe changes must be made or else Europe’s political power will diminish. A September event discussed a new book on this complex and timely topic.

Turkey and America: Indispensable Allies at a Crossroads

Thu, 10 May 2007 10:30:00 GMT

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May 10, 2007, 10:30 AM to 12:15 PM

Don't Go Cold on Turkey

Sat, 03 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Mark R. Parris, The Wall Street Journal (3/3/07)

Italy's Grand Plans for EU Foreign Policy Rest on Clay Feet at Home

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Ettore Greco, Europe's World (Spring 2007)

Political Change in Europe and America and Its Impact on the Alliance

Thu, 02 Nov 2006 13:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 02, 2006, 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM

For years, Americans and Europeans have expressed displeasure with each other’s leadership. New leaders already have taken office in Germany, France, and Britain, and a new leader will be elected in the US next year. This Brookings event analyzed the likely affect of these and future changes.

Why France Shouldn't Legislate Turkey's Past

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Philip H. Gordon and Omer Taspinar, The New Republic Online (10/30/06)

Europe to Send 7,000 Peacekeepers to Lebanon

Fri, 25 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Interview with Philip H. Gordon, PBS (8/25/06)

Does Europe Have Something to Offer the World?

Thu, 01 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Nicolas de Boisgrolllier with others, The Fletcher Forum of World Affairs (Summer 2006)

Turkey on the Brink

Thu, 01 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Philip H. Gordon and Omer Taspinar, The Washington Quarterly (Summer 2006)

Third Annual Conference

Mon, 01 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 01, 2006 at 12:00 AM

Third Annual Conference

Between Bush and Prodi, Europe will be the Stumbling Block

Wed, 12 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Philip H. Gordon, Corriere della Sera (4/12/06)

And Yet It Moves: The European Constitutional Debate One Year Later

Sat, 01 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

In its not-so-long history, the European Union (EU) has known many anni horribiles marked by major events that brought about more or less prolonged crises. But the year 2005 will no doubt be recalled as one of the worst. The rejection of the constitutional treaty, which was signed in fall 2004, in referendums in France and in the Netherlands not only derailed a reform process that the European leaders had presented as crucial for the future of the EU, but also gave rise to a wider identity crisis over the meaning and purpose of the European Union.

The European Services Directive

Sat, 01 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

It is a truism that if you try to please everyone, you end up pleasing no-one. Europe's controversial Services Directive has arguably fallen into this trap. When it was passed on February 16, 2006 by the European Parliament, angry trade unionists gathered at the doors of the Parliament, protesting that the parliament had gone too far. Frustrated supporters of liberalization, for their part, dismissed it as a watered-down version of the original proposal that would do little to advance the goal of a single market for services in Europe.

Roundtable on France

Tue, 07 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 07, 2006 at 12:00 AM

On March 7, 2006, the Brookings Institution's Center on the United States and Europe, in cooperation with the National Intelligence Council, convened a day-long roundtable on the subject of France in Washington, DC. The roundtable brought together academic experts from France and the United States with members of the U.S. intelligence community to discuss long-term trends in France and their implications for France, for Europe, and for transatlantic relations.

The Long Road to the Italian National Elections

Wed, 01 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

On April 9-10 Italian voters will go to the polls to elect their national parliament. It will be a critical election for two reasons. First, if Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi and his coalition Casa delle Liberta' get a second mandate, they will attempt to complete their very controversial blueprint for reforming the judiciary, revising the Constitution and implementing major changes in the tax system. Second, the victory of Berlusconi and his coalition will also mean that they will have enough votes to elect the new President of the Republic. The 1999 election of the outgoing President, eighty-six year-old Carlo Azeglio Ciampi was supported by Berlusconi, but since then Ciampi has often clashed with the Centre-Right government. Several important bills approved by the Casa delle Liberta' have been returned by the President to Parliament as unconstitutional. The President has also tried—to no avail—to influence the drafting of important laws concerning the conflicts of interests between Berlusconi's business empire and his political role and regulation of the mass media system. While Berlusconi claims to be in accord with the President, the Prime Minister has regularly persisted in the promoting the laws in question with only minor cosmetic adjustments. No doubt, however, that he has resented the not-so-veiled criticisms coming from the Presidency. Hence, the election of the next President will also be a significant event in the Italian electoral season.

The Mohammed Cartoons: European Society and Freedom of the Press

Wed, 15 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 15, 2006 at 12:00 AM

The violence that followed the publication of cartoons depicting the prophet Mohammed in several European newspapers has raised questions about European models of social integration and underscored that their debates at home can have dramatic implications abroad. The story has also raised questions about freedom of the press and self-censorship in the media. In a world threatened by a clash of civilizations, does freedom of the press include the right to offend the most sacred beliefs of others? In a time of fundamentalist terrorism, can we allow violence and the threat of violence to determine the content of our speech?

A Caricature of Respect

Tue, 07 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Sara Bjerg Moller, Los Angeles Times (2/7/06)

Turkey: On Europe's Verge?

Tue, 07 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Article by by Henri J. Barkey and Omer Taspinar, Great Decisions (2006)

Cousins and Strangers: America, Britain and Europe in a New Century

Fri, 03 Feb 2006 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 03, 2006, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

Chris Patten, one of Europe's most distinguished statesmen and current Chancellor of Oxford University in England, analyzes the tensions that have arisen within the West since the end of the Cold War in his new book, Cousins and Strangers: America, Britain and Europe in a New Century (Times Books, 2006). Drawing on his decades of experience in elected government and international diplomacy, Patten's book is a frank and personal assessment of the United States, Great Britain, and Europe, and the stakes for all three if the West breaks apart.

Reform in Germany: Prospects for the New Government

Wed, 01 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Foreign commentators and the international press have been skeptical about Germany's new "grand coalition" government, seeing the September election result as a "vote against reforms" and the expression of an apparently innate German desire to stick to the status quo. According to The Economist, "this hung vote looks like being a setback for the reform process in Germany."¹ Le Figaro fears that "after the vote, Germany may become ungovernable."² On the other side of the Atlantic, the Los Angeles Times opined that the "[r]esults boost alternative factions and weaken the push for reform."³ While it is true that the elections did not bring about a clear winner and made forming a traditional coalition government difficult, the new government will by no means be a weak one. Indeed, for the time being at least, the reforms in Germany are likely to benefit from the current power configuration in the Bundestag

Knocking on Europe's Door: Islam in Italy

Wed, 01 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Shortly after the July 7, 2005 bombings in London, Italian interior minister Giuseppe Pisanu warned his compatriots that "terrorism is knocking at Italy's door." Pisanu's remark seemed prescient when one of the failed copycat bombers fled London two weeks later and sought refuge with a brother-in-law in Rome. (It did not comfort the authorities that the terrorist had attended grade school in Italy and spoke passable Italian.) In fall 2005, Italian news media reported that the Jordanian insurgent leader in Iraq, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, had sent "an agent" to Italy to prepare attacks, at the same time reporting that hundreds of undocumented immigrants continued to arrive on the shores of Southern Italy. Combined with the riots in neighboring France, these developments have led the Italian government to move forward on an ambitious program creating new structures to include "moderate Muslims" in the apparatus of Italian state-society relations.

Decadent Europe Revisited

Wed, 01 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The current deadlock in the European Union's constitutional process has provoked yet another period of deep euro-pessimism. It is worth noting that the concept of Europe has lived through similar periods in the past and survived them all, often growing stronger in the process. We need only re-read Raymond Aron's Plaidoyer pour l'Europe décadente (In Defense of Decadent Europe) published in 1976 to recall the dismal intellectual and strategic atmosphere of that moment: the stagflation, the appeal of Eurocommunism, and the apparent strategic ascendancy of the Soviet Union.

The Future of Decadent Europe

Wed, 01 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The conventional wisdom holds that Europe today is economically or socially dysfunctional. In this view, Europe, with its long vacations and generous pensions, is in many ways a better place to live than the United States, but that can not last. Even if the European social model is desirable, it is unrealistic and sooner or later, doomed. This assertion of Europe's doom derives from the association of technological change and globalization with inevitability or necessity. The protected economies of Europe that we have grown so used to will no longer be possible—like it or not this change is going to be upon us. We can see the future because we can see the shape of the economic present.

Unrest in France, November 2005: Immigration, Islam and the Challenge of Integration

Thu, 12 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Presentation to Congressional Staff by Justin Vaisse (1/12/06)

US Gloating Over French Riots is Misplaced

Tue, 15 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Omer Taspinar, Handelsblatt (11/15/05)

Why the French Love Their Farmers

Tue, 15 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Philip H. Gordon and Nicolas de Boisgrollier, YaleGlobal (11/15/05)

The Rebirth of Vision: A Dynamic Compromise for Europe

Tue, 01 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Pierre Hassner, U.S. Europe Analysis Series (November 2005)

Dominique de Villepin: The New Man on The Right

Tue, 01 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Nicolas de Boisgrollier, U.S.-Europe Analysis Series (November 2005)

Globalization Explained to the French

Tue, 11 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Philip H. Gordon, Le Figaro (10/11/05)

The European Disunion

Thu, 01 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Nicolas de Boisgrollier, Survival (Autumn 2005)

EU Enlargement: Cyprus Is a Poor Excuse for Turning Away Turkey

Thu, 18 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Philip H. Gordon, International Herald Tribune (8/18/05)