European Participation in International Military Operations: National Decision-Making and the Role of EU Institutions

The EU’s international role is defined, inter alia, by its participation in international military operations. The task has been challenging under the impact of a number of hindrances. This chapter looks into covertly or overtly interlinked issues that affect the EU’s efficiency when using the tools disposed by its institutional framework. European defence and the way it has/has not progressed has affected the functioning of EEAS, whereas PESCO is providing the basis for more orchestrated action. The best use of each member state’s capabilities and the way these will form a compact instrument of action will define the EU’s international role. The focal point that will determine outcomes lies in the way decisions about military deployment abroad are taken domestically and the way EU institutions and national parliaments will facilitate political and institutional processes in the sphere of defense.