While most conferences on NATO organized by organizations close to the alliance follow a somewhat predictable format, I had the privilege to participate in one that was interesting not only for the ideas participants brought forward, but also for the interaction between the speakers and participants, NATO and the Future of Cooperative Security (part of the 58th ATA General Assembly), held in Rome. On the diplomatic side, the general consensus was that if NATO wants to remain a relevant institution, the Europeans have to take on a greater burden. Italian Foreign Minister Giulio Terzi was surprisingly frank, saying the Europeans can no longer rely on Washington to take the lead [...]

This week Beppe Grillo, the leader of the Five Star Movement, became an international media phenomenon. The movement led by this comedian-turned-politician won more than 8 million votes in the Italian elections of 24 and 25 February, becoming the third largest political force in Italy and the single most popular force for the Chamber of Deputies. Grillo’s success poses questions about the political system in Europe, because his popularity is rooted in the increasing dissatisfaction with his country’s political status quo — a sentiment found in many other EU member countries under economic pressure. Much has been written about Grillo in the last few days, and with a good reason. To [...]

As fighting in Gaza continues, reactions from major world powers have little to do with mediation – all while Iran seems to be benefiting the most from the current escalation. From Washington to Moscow, everyone was counting on Egyptian diplomacy to end the current bout. China remains ‘concerned’ about the developments and many are stressing, yet again,  the need of resolving the Middle East conflict. E.U. foreign affairs chief Catherine Ashton has urged Israel to respond ‘proportionately’ in Gaza, reiterating the ‘caution’ expressed earlier at the European foreign and defense ministers meeting in Paris on November 15. Today, all of Europe seems to be preparing for the weekend after agreeing [...]

I have always found it strange when others say Europeans are pessimistic about their own fate and that, from outside, Europe is seen in a much better position, especially when discussing the current economic crisis. This is due to my personal experience so far. I have to admit that when I talk about the problems of the European Union, I have often met resistance from Europeans. They assure me that the union will find its way out of the crisis and will emerge even stronger than it is today. I fail to understand how the European approach to problem-solving, which generally involves numerous high-level meetings that fail to achieve the desired [...]