Turkish officials have a complex interplay of issues to consider in formulating foreign policy. Other contributions to this volume are not as interesting. Some chapters, such as those on Europe and the Middle East peace process and on Portugal, are competent and informative but do not break new ground. Inconsistency of approach is perhaps unavoidable in analyzing such a diversity of countries. But the differences in approach encountered in this book require the reader to adjust at virtually each new chapter.
Some chapters are lean and analytical, obviously intended for policy makers.
Finally, the volume suffers to some degree because most of the contributors examine the specific policies of particular governments in the years 1990 to 1996 rather than address themes or long-term developments that will be of as much interest to a reader in 2009 as in 1999. The shelf life of the book, consequently, will be limited for those who are looking for guidance in future policy making. Paul E. Gallis Paul E. Gallis is a specialist in European affairs at the Congressional Research Service.