Where is Europe? What is Europe doing in the face of ongoing conflicts?
(BRUSSELS2, opinion) The situation between Gaza and Israel which is heating up, eastern Congo which is sinking into crisis with the rebels at the gates of Goma... without forgetting the classic situation in Syria. These three theaters of crisis are taking place with a relative absence from the European Union (*). Certainly we are entitled to the usual condemnations (ranging from "concerned" to "very concerned"). And the European humanitarian aid system is set in motion. Then we will probably be entitled on Monday to "conclusions", well written, where each term will be weighed. But that's about all.
Where has active diplomacy gone?
We continue to observe a noticeable lack of responsiveness from the EU in the face of events - already noted on numerous occasions over the past several years - and a deficiency in European diplomacy. Where have the negotiation troikas sent on the spot gone, the mediation effort of the parties, the notion of summoning or recalling an ambassador, etc.? This would not end the conflict. You must not dream. But this "active" diplomacy has a role, both in limiting the damage and initiating the search for a future solution, but also in showing Europe's interest and presence in the world.
By depriving itself of this tool, the European Union deprives itself of a capacity to act and opts for the position of a spectator-commentator rather than a dynamic actor for peace.
(*) Note that in two of these three theaters (Israel/Palestine and Congo), a special representative of the Union and European defense policy missions are present.
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