In challenging times, the world needs the EU to be at the top of its game. This week´s budget negotiations are a first testThese are strange and somewhat disorientating times for the European Union. A multipolar world in which China´s influence grows, and Donald Trump´s United States is at best an erratic ally, has created new dilemmas and dangers. Closer to home, Brexit, whatever eventual form it takes, is already transforming the political landscape. For the 27 remaining EU member states, life without Britain truly begins this week. And the first problem to be solved is money.At a special summit on Thursday, called by the new European council president Charles Michel, discussions will begin in earnest over the shape of the EU budget from 2021 to 2027. They will be conducted in the absence of one of the biggest contributors to the collective pot. Taking place every seven years, these negotiations are fraught at the best of times; this round is likely to be the most difficult in the EU´s history. Its progress will provide a litmus test of the union´s ability to fashion a successful, confident strategy in challenging circumstances. Continue reading...
|
