Can a Civilian Power Survive in an Uncivilised World?
Journal: Studia Europejskie-Studies in European Affairs
Year: 2025

It is often asserted that European integration is a peace project because it made war between former enemies on the old continent unthinkable. However, when faced with outbreaks of violence just outside its borders, the EU has proven to be paralysed, if not powerless. This is because of its cumbersome decision-making process and the lack of military capabilities at the disposal of the EU’s centre. Can a civilian power such as the EU assert its inﬂuence in an increasingly volatile, if not uncivil