The European Union (EU) has long prided itself on being a global leader in promoting peace, upholding international law, and protecting civilians. This commitment to being a “normative power” is not just a lofty ideal, but a core principle enshrined in EU treaties, declarations, and Council conclusions. However, recent events have brought this self-image into question.
In particular, the EU’s response to the ongoing conflict in Syria has raised doubts about its ability to live up to its own standards. The brutal and drawn-out nature of the war in Syria has resulted in the displacement of millions of civilians and the loss of countless lives. Despite its rhetoric, the EU has been unable to effectively address this crisis and has failed to live up to its self-proclaimed role as a normative power.
One of the main reasons for this failure is the EU’s inability to speak with a united voice. The EU is made up of 27 member states, each with its own national interests and priorities. This often leads to conflicting views and a lack of consensus on how to respond to global crises such as the one in Syria. As a result, the EU has been unable to take decisive action and has instead resorted to half-hearted measures that have had little impact on the ground.
Another issue is the EU’s reliance on diplomatic channels to address conflicts. While diplomacy is an important tool in promoting peace, it can only be effective when backed up by concrete actions. In the case of Syria, the EU has limited itself to issuing statements and making calls for peace, without taking any meaningful steps to end the conflict. This has not only undermined the EU’s credibility as a normative power but has also allowed the situation in Syria to escalate.
Furthermore, the EU’s response to the refugee crisis caused by the Syrian conflict has been inadequate and has raised questions about its commitment to protecting civilians. Despite being a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, the EU has failed to provide a united and effective response to the influx of refugees. This has resulted in a humanitarian crisis at the EU’s borders, with thousands of refugees living in overcrowded and inhumane conditions.
It is clear that the EU’s actions (or lack thereof) in Syria have not aligned with its rhetoric of being a normative power. However, there is still hope for the EU to live up to its ideals and regain its reputation as a global leader in promoting peace and protecting civilians.
Firstly, the EU must prioritize finding a united and decisive response to the Syrian conflict. This requires member states to put aside their national interests and work towards a common goal of ending the suffering of the Syrian people. The EU must also use its diplomatic channels to engage with all parties involved in the conflict and push for a peaceful resolution.
Moreover, the EU must take concrete actions to address the refugee crisis. This includes providing adequate support and resources to member states that are on the frontlines of the crisis, as well as developing a long-term plan to address the root causes of displacement.
Additionally, the EU must lead by example and ensure that its own actions align with its values. This means upholding human rights and international law not only within the EU but also in its relations with other countries. The EU must also hold itself accountable and take responsibility for any failures to live up to its own standards.
In conclusion, the EU’s self-image as a normative power has been called into question due to its response to the Syrian conflict. However, it is not too late for the EU to regain its reputation and live up to its ideals. By prioritizing unity, decisive action, and leading by example, the EU can once again become a global leader in promoting peace, upholding international law, and protecting civilians. It is time for the EU to turn its words into actions and truly live up to its title as a normative power.
