ABSTRACT
The Maastricht Treaty is a milestone in the evolution of the EC as an international political actor. In its external activities, the EC will continue to be plagued by institutional obstacles to coherence and efficiency and member state differences regarding goals and instruments. Nonetheless, the EC is already an international political actor of significance and will build on its past record through the further institutionalization of ties to a variety of international actors in an ever-expanding range of issues.
Three scenarios of EC international activism are possible, “assertive Europe,” “decisive Europe,” and “diffident Europe.” “Assertive Europe” characterizes current reality and will frame developments in the next decade; it involves increased activity in the 142newer issues of international relations: environmental concerns, human rights and development, and structural peace. The other two scenarios could emerge by the end of the decade as a function of political will both within the EC and its member states and impulses from the international arena. One scenario implies further integration, the other disintegration in Europe.
There are costs and benefits of each scenario for the United States. It should support “assertive Europe,” promote “decisive Europe,” and work actively to avoid “diffident Europe.” The United States must play an active role in devising an international and bilateral agenda with the EC as a political actor.
