FRIDE Changing approaches to security

Addressing state fragility in Guinea-Conakry: A European success story?

Cristina Barrios — 2013-05-19T03:42:20+01:00

In the aftermath of Guinea’s disputed elections in 2010, development partners hoped a successful democratic transition would redress state fragility, improve resource management and secure peace and economic development. This policy brief by Cristina Barrios challenges this optimistic view and examines EU policies in Guinea.

Does NATO matter for US defence policy?

Daniel Keohane — 2013-05-19T03:42:20+01:00

The renewed focus of US defence policy towards Asia does not endanger the future of NATO. Although it will not respond to every crisis in and around Europe, the US is not disengaging from European security. But Europeans need to think harder about their collective security interests and willingness to use force.

Nigeria's Boko Haram Threat: How the EU should act

Oladiran W. Bello — 2013-05-19T03:42:20+01:00

Escalation of the Boko Haram threat in Nigeria is prompting the EU to consider urgent steps towards the country. The EU requires a balanced approach that does not dilute its development aid, which intends to enable a more effective use of Nigeria’s resources. Europe should tailor its approach to influence micro-level dynamics in Nigeria’s north whilst also aiming for a firmer strategic outreach to the country beyond immediate counter-insurgency concerns.

An agenda for the Seoul Nuclear Security Summit

Chaesung Chun — 2013-05-19T03:42:20+01:00

On 27-28 March 2012 Seoul will host the second International Nuclear Security Summit, attended by 50 countries. The summit offers the opportunity to discuss not only nuclear security related to proliferation and terrorism but also nuclear safety issues which are a rising concern after the Fukushima Disaster in March 2011.

The EU's approach to fragility in Guinea Bissau: Between ambition and coherence

Oladiran W. Bello — 2013-05-19T03:42:20+01:00

The EU’s vast potential to address state fragility in West Africa remains unfulfilled. In Guinea Bissau the EU’s weak political analysis, perfunctory multilateralism and mistimed reform incentives have constituted critical roadblocks. To counter the perception that the EU seeks to dominate the international agenda, future engagement must calibrate support to domestic reform constituencies whilst reaching out to myriad international stakeholders.

With the suppot of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.