International Relations

Global power shifts are changing international relations and the repercussions are felt around the globe. This web dossier by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung explores these changes. The contributions discuss how non-major power actors respond, the prospects of (cross-)regional cooperation and a potential role for the European Union.

Europe’s defence map is being redrawn. Our new Böll EU Brief tracks over 160 defence partnerships signed since 2014 among EU countries, the UK and Ukraine – most of them after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Bilateralism boosts trust, interoperability and procurement speed, but also risks duplication and fragmentation. To turn this patchwork into strategy, the EU and NATO should map and integrate these deals into joint planning, strengthen the European Defence Agency’s role, and use bilaterals to offset declining US support.  

Subsea data cables are the digital lifelines of our modern world. Yet, external factors frequently expose vulnerabilities in the network and its supporting infrastructure. While around 150 cable faults occur globally each year, states suspect a growing number of cable faults to be linked to hybrid or malicious activity. Recognising that many states around the world face similar risks, the EU Action Plan on Cable Security proposes to establish “an advanced cable diplomacy”. But cable diplomacy is not a one-size-fits-all strategy. Technological sensitivities, dual-use aspects and geopolitical considerations demand a tailored approach. Where and how should the EU build effective cable diplomacy partnerships?

In this era of information overload and endless content streams, time is precious. That’s why we’re launching the Böll EU Brief—a format designed to cut through the noise and deliver clear, concise, and impactful analysis on pressing EU issues and emerging debates. Each brief is packed with sharp insights and key takeaways, presented in a format that takes just 10 minutes to read. We focus on what really matters: offering concise, thought-provoking content that informs opinions and sparks meaningful discussions. Written by experts, the Böll EU Brief complements our in-depth e-papers and publications with relevant and timely perspectives.

In a pivotal week for transatlantic trade relations, the new EU Böll Brief “Trading partners? Europe's options against Trump’s tariffs“ analyses the potential consequences of rising US tariffs on European trade and explores strategic responses available to the EU, highlighting the economic risks of a tariff war for each individual EU Member State and outlining alternative strategies for the EU to safeguard its economic interests.

EU-India relations are key for the von der Leyen II European Commission, as the is also looking to expand its circle of key partners, against a backdrop of uncertainty over transatlantic relations.

The outcome of the 2024 elections in the USA will have far-reaching international consequences. How will the result affect Transatlantic relations, Europe's security policy and global climate policy? In this web dossier, the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung addresses these and other questions from a green and European perspective.

Since Javier Milei became President, Argentina's political landscape has experienced a profound shift. A self-proclaimed libertarian and populist, Milei has challenged traditional political norms, raising concerns about democratic backsliding and human rights. His administration’s pivot away from international commitments, such as the 2030 Agenda, and its focus on deregulation and extractivist industries, have set Argentina on a new trajectory. With rising state control, restrictions on civil liberties, and increased mass surveillance, many are questioning the future of Argentina's democracy and its relationships with global partners. Three civil society representatives will visit Brussels on 14-18 October 2024, to present the impact of Milei's administration on democracy, human rights, digital rights, environmental protection and economic and social rights.