Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
It’s easy to get caught up on how climate change affects everything from Germany-Italy bond spreads to efforts to reach NATO’s defense spending targets.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is forcing France to shift its attention to European defense. This direction could benefit both the EU and NATO.
Countries responsible for higher gas emissions are stuck in an economic model that does not allow for peaceful and constructive climate conversations. To deliver on the climate transition and to avoid further conflict, decarbonization should not be used as a tool to redesign the global balance of power.
The decline of democracy in the United States means Washington’s leadership role cannot be taken for granted. It is time Europe seriously invested in its own security and defense.
“We have to be very clear-eyed about what is feasible, politically and socially.”
Countries around the world are struggling to bridge the gap between citizens and political elites. Innovative practices outside the West, while far from ideal, should be considered in debates about democratic renewal in Europe.
The window to stabilize the climate is rapidly closing. Negotiators at COP27 must be ready to address thorny issues and move from ambitious targets to policy implementation.
Polls in the UK show a significant gap between the popularity of the Tories’ new leader, Rishi Sunak, and trust in the conservatives. To compete with Labour in the next election, the primer minister must overcome the voters’ deep contempt for his party.
Perhaps the prime minister is simply trying to create a new and bold impression with these kinds of moves. But such an impression will come at a great cost to British interests, and bring no benefits at all. On a cross-party basis, we urgently need a unified course correction before irrevocable damage is done.
The Biden administration has led the Western military and economic response to Russia’s attack on Ukraine. Europe must be ready to act independently if and when Washington’s policy changes.