ABSTRACT
The evolution of European regionalism is confronted with very complex challenges coming from the so-called arch of the crisis, from the East to South of the European Union (EU). As far as the impact of the European-Mediterranean process in general is concerned, we are still witnessing a rather modest result. The EU is being challenged to cope with its pan-European responsibilities. The new European Union, including a political union, needs deepening and strengthening in order to cope with external responsibilities and challenges. The issue of the political role of the EU interacts with the challenge of enlargement. Regarding the future of West European regionalism in the new pan-European environment, 1989–91 was a historical turning point. The Euro-Mediterranean relationship suggests interesting theoretical developments concerning analogies and differences between deeper regional integration and softer regionalism open to the near abroad. The nationalism, fundamentalism and ethnic conflicts will increase regional wild instability, even if not in the civilization's clash picture.
