Common European External And Security Policy

The Common External Security Policy (CESP) is based on political integration and promotes E.U interests in relation with third parties. In 1993, through The Maastricht Treaty, CESP becomes a pillar of the E.U. and is based on five fundamental principles. After the first revision of the Maastricht Treaty (Amsterdam, 1997), the President of the E.U. Council, along with the External Affairs Commissioner and the High Representative for CESP represent the E.U. at a diplomatic level on the international stage. This representation has been confirmed through the Constitutional Treaty established in 2004, and the Lisbon Treaty in 2007 as well. The E.U. has also created new institutions to support this representation. At the moment, CESP is facing major issues. The first challenge is the European-American anti missile shield, along with the standoff between Russia and N.A.T.O. / O.T.A.N. and the European Union. the standoff currently threatens Europe's economic and social stability, through division. Another crisis which CESP faces is the illegal immigration crisis, which has at least two major causes: Islamic State terrorism and poverty in countries across Asia and Eastern Africa. The massive exodus of Syrians, a never before seen phenomenon, has divided Europe again, based on how the matter should be addressed, leading to the conclusion that there is no political unity in the E.U. The expansion of the European Union is another CESP concern, as economic integration is paramount, i.e. the creation of a larger market, within the global economy and ensuring Europe's political stability. Of special interest is the Neighbouring Policy of the European Union, which includes many regions. The E.U and the U.S. are not the only actors involved, but also Russia, Turkey, and many poorer and smaller states which aspire towards a better standard of living..