The Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) of the EU has so far rarely met the expectations. Lately, it has only played a marginal role in conflicts with European involvement. In the aftermath of the Libyan conflict, there was even some talk of the “demise” of the CSDP. Contrary to numerous predictions, so far the cuts in national defence spending caused by the economic and financial crisis have not produced the necessary political will for greater cooperation.