Selective adherence to EU values and the quest for external coherence: a comparative discourse analysis of Czechia, Hungary, and Norway Amid Russia’s war in Ukraine

Abstract

ABSTRACT Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has compelled the EU to adopt 13 sanction packages against Russia, demonstrating increased external coherence in the EU’s foreign policy. This consensus can potentially drive a more robust upgrade, further fortifying the Union’s external coherence. However, this progress is compromised by selective adherence to the EU’s values. Employing a multi-tiered theoretical framework, the study hypothesises that external coherence is rooted in a matrix of legal frameworks, policy discourses, and contributions from external actors. Using critical discourse analysis, the research investigates how selective adherence impacts the EU’s external coherence by comparing the discourses of four actors: Czechia, Hungary, the European External Action Service (EEAS), and Norway. Findings reveal that selective adherence to EU values is least evident in Hungary, moderately present in Czechia, and most pronounced in Norway, with the EEAS striving to promote coherence despite legislative constraints. While Russia’s war in Ukraine has significantly impacted the EU, selective adherence to EU values has nonetheless contributed to fragmented external coherence in its foreign policy, undermining the Union’s international credibility and geopolitical position.