Despite an unprecedented number of global challenges facing the international community, the appetite for multilateral # is waning amid growing polarization and geopolitical competition. Under its current administration, the United States’ pivot to isolationism has struck another blow to the multilateral system, upending critical funding and support for peace and security, development, humanitarian, and climate change initiatives, among others.
On June 11, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation and Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies convened a breakfast briefing on Multilateralism under pressure: What can and should Europe do in these fractured times? featuring remarks by Mikuláš Dzurinda, former Prime Minister of Slovakia (1998-2006) and President of the Martens Centre, and Klaus Welle, former Secretary-General of the European Parliament (2009-2022) and Chair of the Martens Centre Academic Council.
The briefing brought together stakeholders from the United Nations system (UN), UN Member States, think tanks, academia, and private sector to reflect on the troubled state of multilateralism, the various dynamics contributing to the current crisis, and opportunities for Europe to galvanize multilateral support and cooperation. Discussion highlighted:
- Europe must be unwavering in its political, military, and financial support for Ukraine. European leaders should continue efforts to mobilize a coalition of the willing, including bringing in non-EU and non-European countries.
- In the mid-term—and in light of U.S. disengagement—Europe must prioritize bolstering its defense and security to deter further Russian aggression. This transition should take into consideration nuclear deterrence, as well.
- In the face of nationalist headwinds, Europe must continue to pursue cooperation and integration as a means to economic growth. Importantly, Europe must also re-establish consensus within society regarding the value of cooperation.