Europe and the Gulf: Partnership in an era of global upheaval |
On May 9, Europeans commemorate Europe Day, marking the anniversary of the 1950 Schuman Declaration – the historic initiative that laid the foundations of the modern European Union. More than a symbolic date, Europe Day represents a vision of international cooperation built not on rivalry or domination, but on interdependence, shared prosperity and the rule of law. In today’s increasingly unstable world, that vision carries renewed significance.
The global order is undergoing profound transformation. The crisis surrounding Iran and the broader instability in the Gulf region are not isolated developments confined to the Middle East. They are part of a wider pattern of geopolitical fragmentation that is reshaping international relations and challenging the foundations of the rules-based system established after World War II. At the same time, technological revolutions, climate pressures, economic uncertainty and security threats are redefining the way nations interact and compete.
The world has entered a period where uncertainty has become the defining condition of international politics. Artificial intelligence, biotechnology and quantum computing are transforming economies at unprecedented speed, creating enormous opportunities but also new vulnerabilities. Digital competition, cyber threats and technological dependency have become strategic concerns for governments across the globe. Alongside these shifts, the world continues to face escalating climate disruptions, food insecurity, pandemics and energy instability.
Geopolitical tensions have further intensified this fragile environment. Russia’s war in Ukraine, instability in the Middle East and mounting tensions in key maritime corridors have exposed the vulnerabilities of global supply chains and international institutions. Increasingly, nations are confronting a critical question: Will international law and cooperation prevail, or will power politics and unilateralism dominate global affairs?
Europe’s response to this challenge has been to strengthen both its internal resilience and its external partnerships. The European Union is pursuing strategic priorities focused on economic competitiveness, technological innovation, energy security........