Curb your enthusiasm: why an EU perspective on UN Security Council reform does not imply an EU seat

Abstract

Focusing on the European Union, this contribution analyses the limits and opportunities of regionalism (and regional seats in particular) for breaking the stalemate on the reform of the United Nations Security Council. It explores the realities of effective multilateralism by building upon the notions of internal and external institutional reform. It argues that regional dynamics are not without value, but leaves few reasons for great enthusiasm. Most likely, a common position among the EU member states would mean an important step forwards. Yet past experiences show that this will be no sinecure, even in light of the UN's landmark jubilee.