№41: Understanding EU Action during “Euromaidan:” Lessons for the Next Phase
№41: Understanding EU Action during “Euromaidan:” Lessons for the Next Phase

Author(s): Roderick Parkes, Anita Sobják
Subject(s): Governance, International relations/trade, Geopolitics, Peace and Conflict Studies
Published by: PISM Polski Instytut Spraw Międzynarodowych
Keywords: European Union; Euromaidan; EU Member States; Ukraine; political pressure;
Summary/Abstract: During Euromaidan, a lack of cohesion between Member States left the EU pursuing a basic “tipping point” approach: rather than offering Ukraine a large-scale transformation package, the EU tried to apply targeted pressure on the players involved (Moscow, Washington, Ukraine’s politicians and society), and to tip each onto a positive course. The approach was weak, and only last-minute political intervention from a trio of Member States prevented Ukraine’s wholesale descent into chaos and violent repression. Analysis of the political dynamics behind this fragmented response should, however, allow the EU to take a more coherent position, on Ukraine and in the wider region, in the future. Poland is well-placed to lead that approach.

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