“The book shows why it was possible to agree such a document and build support for the implementation of some if its aims. It makes a stimulating read not just for EU foreign policy pundits, but also for those with an interest in how strategy is made. As a well-informed, wide-ranging and often frank assessment from behind the scenes of European strategy-making, it is a short but very rewarding read.” (Christoph Meyer, The RUSI Journal, Vol. 162 (6), January, 2018) “Most essays on strategy are about what and why. Nathalie Tocci's book answers the political question: how to get a meaningful agreement among 28 countries? Its climax brings together the low politics of bureaucracy and the high politics of crisis. Read it if you want to understand the EU and its Global Strategy.” (Sir Robert Cooper, Special Advisor at the European Commission)
“Nathalie Tocci offers readers a unique behind-the-scenes look into the making of the 2016 EU Global Strategy. She brings in the fresh perspective of an 'outsider' in the process, as she serves as EU High Representative Federica Mogherini's special adviser but is also the deputy director of an Italian think tank, with an academic background. An invaluable contribution that enhances our understanding not only of the EU Global Strategy itself, but also of the current challenges facing the EU (including Brexit). This book should be of immense interest to scholars, students and practitioners of European foreign policy and international relations.” (Professor Karen Smith, LSE, UK)
“A very timely book. Nathalie Tocci is able to produce a scholarly book with the experience of having been close to the making of the EU global strategy. A must read to understand better what the EU could and should do in foreign and security policy in the period that it opens in front of us.” (Javier Solana, ESADE, Spain)