The EU as a Counter-Terrorism Actor Abroad: Finding Opportunities, Overcoming Constraints

Abstract

The European Union considers itself a key part of the global fight against terrorism, but does such a claim stand up to scrutiny? How can existing counter-terrorism efforts be improved and new initiatives undertaken more effectively in a post-Lisbon institutional environment? This working paper answers these questions and sets out recommendations for the future. The study provides an overview of the EU’s counter-terrorism resources and instruments and of recent developments in the use of these assets in five key countries: Algeria, Morocco, Yemen, Pakistan and Indonesia, in order to identify instances of success and failure, and to pinpoint opportunities for mobilising assistance more effectively in the future. For each case, it provides a situation assessment; examines the targeted technical assistance provided by the EU in the following sectors: anti-corruption, governance and rule of law, judicial capacity-building, police and law enforcement, and border management; and discusses the challenges facing EU assistance in the country. Viewed in comparison, the five case studies reveal common problems in how the EU prioritises, mobilises and delivers assistance to third countries. Those problems can be grouped into four categories: the receptiveness of third countries, the willingness of EU Member States to cooperate, the coordination of EU institutions and delegations, and the coherence of the international community.