Geopolitics and the Foreign Policy Dimension of EU Energy Security

Abstract

This chapter outlines the geopolitical context in which EU’s foreign energy policies are being framed. Europe is in a particularly delicate position when compared to the other large energy-consuming regions of the world, as it is situated at the margins of a ‘new arc of instability’. Moreover, the incisiveness of the EU’s foreign energy policy is undermined by fragmentary interests within the EU. In the post-Cold War era, the EU has tried to address energy security challenges in multiple ways, but the guiding principle has been to promote energy security by supporting the idea that free markets depoliticize energy trade. The chapter provides a series of examples showing how the EU has deliberately pursued foreign energy policy interests by making use of its newly devised ‘rules of the game’ inspired by the principles of market liberalization. This led to divergent views between the EU and external suppliers. Finally, the chapter offers a brief overview of EU foreign energy policy instruments included in the Energy Union concept. This can be regarded as an attempt to overcome problems posed by the existence of fragmentary interests within the EU, and shows a recognition of the need for new forms of engagement with external suppliers.