Converging, Diverging and Instrumentalizing European Security and Defence Policy in the Mediterranean

Abstract

This article addresses the degree of convergence, divergence and in some cases indifference of Southern and Eastern Mediterranean Countries towards the European Security and Defence Policy. Focusing on two cases, Morocco and Turkey, but also referring to other Mediterranean partners, this contribution analyses the dynamics of this specific issue area, arguing that policy convergence in the field of security and defence has reflected process-oriented goals rather than a substantive convergence of strategic interests. The article concludes by exploring how the EU's differentiated geographical approach in security and defence cooperation in the Mediterranean impacts on the broader region-building endeavour.