The Art of the Package Deal
In its enlargement policy reviews, the European Commission has brought up a number of well-known reform options. However, it has failed to suggest a way to overcome opposition, especially amongst smaller member states.
Middle Road to Nowhere?
After Mark Carney’s call for an “alliance of middle powers,” cooperation has indeed increased, but not quite in the way the Canadian prime minister intended.
The Looming Confrontation
While German politics are in disarray, the EU is approaching a moment of truth in its relationship with China.
Why Germany Should Not De-risk from France
Germany is asking itself whether it can continue to trust France if the far-right Marine Le Pen is elected president next spring. But that is the wrong question.
Public Goods, Public Questions
What is the role of the European Union when economics clashes with sovereignty and security?
Deterrence Is Now Key. But Don’t Forget About Arms Control
The Europeans should offer their expertise in setting up channels of communication and other arms-control measures to their Indo-Pacific partners. Such know-how may become useful sooner rather than later.
The EU and China: An Inevitable Showdown
Chinese trade policies and subsidies are destroying the European Union’s industrial base. This fall, the Europeans need to respond—and prepare for the conflict in the right way.
Germany’s New China Policy: Right Instinct, Wrong Tools
The German government finally wants to protect European industry from Chinese overcapacity. However, it is relying on the wrong measures to do so.
How China Can Strike Back
Beijing’s export controls on rare earths are never truly cancelled, only delayed. They could undermine Europe’s plans to push back against “China Shock 2.0.”
The Case for a Renewed US-German Partnership
Relations between Washington and Berlin have deteriorated in recent years. With the return of great power competition, both sides would profit immensely from revitalizing it, by finding a new division of labor that resembles the old one.
Europe’s Debate on Cooling Technology Is Heating Up
After another temperature record-breaking summer, the need for Europe to introduce air conditioning more widely has become obvious. Luckily, there is a solution with additional benefits.
The AfD Wins Again, but Merz Clings On
Germany’s far right has had another strong showing in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, with the chancellor’s CDU failing to enter the parliament. Without a challenger ready to pounce, however, Merz is likely to stay in office—for now.