Significance of the Western European Union for Europe and its Relationship to theUnited States of America

摘要

Starting with the current situation of Western European Union (WEU) the paperdescribes the challenges and risks Europe is confronted with, in and around Europe, which require adaptations not only from the European Union (EU) and its designated defense arm, the WEU, but also from NATO and Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). The paper addresses, thereafter, the United States' role and interest in Europe, which lead to consequences concerning the future role of WEU embedded in NATO as well as in EU, in order to support a burden-sharing between United States and Europe. The paper suggests a future role for WEU, functionally and limited regionally, which complements the missions of NATO and OSCE in the security architecture in and for Europe. In consequence, the United States, as the world's policeman, would be relieved, which would increase United States' will and resolve to remain committed in Europe since the new relationship would be based on an equal share of risks and responsibilities in a global engagement.