Human security in Europe: the European Union and beyond

Abstract

This chapter explores Europe's contribution to human security thinking and practice. It argues that this contribution has to do with the distinctive character of the European Union (EU) as a global security actor and the emphasis on operationalising human security for 21st century conflicts and institutions. The chapter starts with a discussion of the first iteration of the human security concept developed for the EU, the principles and capabilities required for its implementation, and the extent to which these ideas and proposals have been diffused and embedded in European foreign policy. It then examines second-generation human security and its influence on the current security thinking and strategy of the EU. The chapter considers the role of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in shaping European ideas about human security and NATO's growing interest in human security, and concludes by highlighting key openings and obstacles for taking forward the human security agenda in Europe.