The Mediterranean has gradually become the epicenter of the most dramatic policy challenges confronting the EU—challenges that, if left unchecked, will have far-reaching consequences.

The European Commission’s newly released White Paper on Energy outlines a strategy that calls for an increased, consolidated role for Brussels to resolve tensions on energy supply security.

While a greater degree of pluralism has been introduced into Arab societies, they are still likely to grapple with political apathy, low voter turnout, dwindling membership in registered parties, and shrinking constituencies for the foreseeable future.