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Multilateralism and identity. Can the COVID-19 pandemic create a sense of common sharing and an improvement in international relations?

Research Paper by Jacopo Giraudo

15.12.2020


Abstract

Can the European identity improve the international role of the EU and strengthen multilateralism?

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how the persistence of borders in a globalised scenario is an issue to be addressed and not underestimated. The trend of strengthening nationalistic tendencies has become more acute, and multilateralism was weakened. Since the EU’s global position is frail, a further weakness resulting from a lack of common feeling would undermine the very role of the Union. Can we consider the popular opinion as a stimulus for cession of sovereignty in foreign policy, defence and security? Could a sense of community among Europeans imply a greater credibility of the EU itself? Starting from the concept of European identity, this paper analyses how the affection of citizens towards the process of European integration would be a catalyst for an efficient action of the EU on the defence of multilateralism and the promotion of European values. The main goal will be to present policy recommendations to strengthen the feeling of attachment to the European project.

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About the author

Jacopo Giraudo was born in Cuneo (Italy) in 1995. In June 2020, he graduated in European Interdisciplinary Studies – Major in European History and Civilization from the College of Europe in Natolin. Jacopo works as an Intern at the Strategy Unit of the Chairman’s Cabinet at the EPP Group in the European Parliament. He is also Adjunct Lecturer in History of International Relations and Immigration Dynamics & Policies at the Department of Cultures, Politics and Society of the University of Turin.


#Multilateralism #Identity #EU #COVID19 #ForeignPolicy #CFSP


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