The European Union as a Regional Power and Its Potential to Become an Effective Global Player

The European Union plays different roles in the region (Europe and its neighbourhood) and on the global scene. Due to various threats and challenges emerging from neighbouring countries (politically fast-changing environment, illegal migration, etc.), which are affecting the EU countries directly, one of the EU foreign policy’s goals is to ensure stability and prosperity in its neighbourhood. However, on the global scene, the EU is building up its position mostly in economic terms, by developing trade relations with other international actors. The research questions are: does the EU have the potential to become an effective global player, both in economic and political terms? Is the EU, as a regional organization, capable of becoming an influential global actor?