Anand Menon notes that the European Union’s (EU) peacetime framework may hinder its ability to effectively respond to current security challenges on the continent. However, the formation of the European Political Community, which convened recently in Copenhagen, aims to unify support for Ukraine while also serving as a diplomatic platform that includes non-EU states, such as the United Kingdom and Turkey. This community has the potential to become a crucial forum for collaboration in European security.
Additionally, innovative approaches and a departure from traditional institutional barriers may enable the EU to address concerns related to decision-making delays, as cited by Menon. One proposal gaining traction is the establishment of an EU economic security council, modeled after its U.S. counterpart. This council would facilitate essential geostrategic assessments for the EU, offering a structured framework for coordinating economic policy with security considerations.
While the EU may not pursue hard power, integrating economic strategies into its policymaking could enhance its ability to utilize existing resources for both economic stability and continental security. This evolution may prove vital as Europe navigates complex geopolitical landscapes.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/oct/05/tools-to-power-up-the-european-union