EPC Update: Coalitions of the willing – the way to save EUrope?
YouTube, 30.04.2025
Online Briefing
This EPC Update discussed the potential for, and possible drawbacks of, forming ‘coalitions of the willing’ inside and outside the EU framework.
Is there a need for more differentiation among member states to avoid ambition being sacrificed for the sake of unity among the EU27? In which areas should countries that are both willing and capable of moving forward be allowed to do so in smaller coalitions, particularly if progress is stalled at the level of all 27 EU member states? Can this be achieved within the Union, using existing instruments of differentiation or should the ‘willing and able’ cooperate outside of the EU Treaties? If the latter, what options should be explored and what safeguards are necessary to avoid potential political and institutional drawbacks? How can non-EU countries, including potential future member states, be included in such ‘coalitions of the willing’?
Speakers: Janis A. Emmanouilidis, Deputy Chief Executive & Director of Studies, European Policy Centre; Fabian Zuleeg, Chief Executive & Chief Economist, European Policy Centre
Moderator: Jacki Davis, Senior Adviser, European Policy Centre
Link to video on YouTube here
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