ABSTRACT

This chapter explores the extent to which cohesiveness, coherence and consistency of the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) matter for its effectiveness. It begins with outlining the conceptual differences between coherence, cohesiveness and consistency. The chapter explores the evolution of the ENP regarding its coherence and consistency, respectively. It shows that consistency, rather than coherence, accounts for the varying effectiveness of the ENP. The chapter analyses how the coherence and consistency of the ENP evolved and how they have affected the effectiveness of the European Union (EU) in transforming its southern and eastern neighbourhood. The EU has tried to position itself as a democracy promoter in its southern neighbourhood. The chapter concludes with a summary of the most important arguments on when and why the EU pursues a consistent approach in its ENP and how this affects the EU's overall effectiveness in promoting domestic change in its neighbourhood.