Perspectives in Europe's the Southern Neighbourhood
In recent years, there have been dramatic political changes in Europe’s southern neighbourhood. The Arab Spring and the successive falls of bloody dictators in Tunisia, in Egypt and in Libya created a wave of hope but was followed by uncertainty and disappointment. The civil wars in Syria and Libya created inhumane situations for civilians in both countries and serious security threats for their neighbours as well as for the European Union. The stalemate of the Middle East Peace Process means that frustration and resentment against external actors such as the EU remains at a high level Security threats and continued social inequalities in most of the countries of the region trigger dissatisfaction and encourage migration. Europe is seen as a migration destination but not as a strong and united stakeholder capable of having a positive impact on the region’s crises...