Can European leaders safeguard the EU’s sovereignty in a changing global order?
In an increasingly multipolar world, the European Union must reevaluate its position within the international system. For decades, transatlantic relations have been the cornerstone of European security, economic stability, and political alignment. However, as the global order shifts, the United States’ actions often appear to prioritize its own interests at the expense of its allies. To ensure the EU’s long-term survival and sovereignty, Europe must adopt a “Europe First” strategy.
The Evolving Global Order: A Systemic Perspective
The post-Cold War international system was characterized by American unipolarity. The U.S. acted as the global hegemon, promoting liberal values, free markets, and security guarantees through institutions like NATO. However, the rise of China, the resurgence of Russia, and the economic independence of emerging powers have fragmented this order. Today, we are witnessing a transition to a multipolar world, where power is distributed among various actors, including the EU.
In this context, U.S. foreign policy has shifted toward securing its own primacy in a competitive environment. American decisions—such as protectionist trade policies, aggressive sanctions regimes, and selective unilateralism—have increasingly clashed with the interests of EU member states.
The U.S. as a Threat to European Sovereignty
While the U.S. remains a critical ally, several recent trends highlight its potential to undermine EU sovereignty:
- Economic Protectionism
The U.S.’s use of extraterritorial sanctions, trade restrictions, and subsidies—such as those under the Inflation Reduction Act—has disadvantaged European industries. These actions threaten the EU’s ability to compete globally and undermine the principles of fair trade that Washington itself once championed. - Energy Dependence
Europe’s pivot away from Russian energy has significantly increased its reliance on American liquefied natural gas (LNG). This dependence exposes Europe to price volatility and limits its ability to pursue an independent energy policy. - Security Dominance
NATO, while crucial for European security, has long been dominated by American interests. The U.S. often dictates the alliance’s priorities, as seen in its strategic focus on Asia and the Indo-Pacific. This diverts attention from Europe’s immediate security concerns, such as the stability of its Eastern neighborhood. - Digital and Technological Autonomy
American dominance in digital infrastructure and platforms raises concerns over data privacy and technological sovereignty. European efforts to regulate Big Tech are frequently met with resistance from U.S. corporations and policymakers. - Geopolitical Exploitation
The U.S. has a history of leveraging crises to strengthen its position in Europe. For example, the conflict in Ukraine has reinforced American arms sales and energy exports, often at the expense of Europe’s long-term strategic autonomy.
Recommendations: A “Europe First” Strategy
To address these challenges, the EU must pursue a cohesive and assertive strategy that prioritizes its own interests. Key recommendations include:
- Strategic Autonomy in Defense
The EU must invest in its own defense capabilities through mechanisms like the European Defence Fund and PESCO (Permanent Structured Cooperation). A unified European military framework would reduce reliance on NATO and allow Europe to respond independently to regional crises. - Economic Independence
Strengthening the euro as a global reserve currency and reducing dependence on the U.S. dollar are essential steps. Europe must also invest in strategic industries, including green energy and semiconductor manufacturing, to compete with American and Asian counterparts. - Energy Resilience
Europe should diversify its energy imports by fostering closer ties with non-American suppliers and accelerating the transition to renewable energy. Initiatives like the European Green Deal must prioritize energy sovereignty. - Technological Sovereignty
The EU should enhance its leadership in emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing. Expanding the Digital Europe Programme and enforcing stringent data protection laws can safeguard European interests in the digital age. - Strengthened European Identity
A unified political vision is necessary to counter external pressures. The EU must foster stronger cohesion among member states, resist external interference, and project a unified voice on the global stage. - Balanced Transatlantic Relations
While maintaining a cooperative relationship with the U.S., Europe must push back against policies that undermine its interests. Diplomatic engagement should focus on renegotiating trade terms, securing exemptions from extraterritorial sanctions, and recalibrating NATO priorities.
What will be the future of Europe in the global power balance?
A “Europe First” approach does not imply hostility toward the United States. Rather, it reflects the need for the EU to assert itself as a sovereign actor in a multipolar world. By prioritizing its own interests, Europe can safeguard its prosperity, security, and values while contributing to a more balanced and stable international system.
The time has come for Europe to lead—not as a junior partner, but as an equal player on the global stage.
