The European Union as a ‘Normative Power’ in International Relations. Theoretical and Empirical Challenges

The European Union is currently in the process of defi ning its position in the international arena. European integration, especially in the context of foreign affairs, has proved to be a challenging experience, as revealed in more than one crisis. In the empirical scope, this refers mostly to the lack of unity and cohesion between the Member States in reacting to and/or resolving international issues, which results from the diversity of interests presented by the Member States. In the theoretical scope, the main issue lies in establishing the characteristic traits of the European Union in international relations. The popular concept of the European Union acting as a ‘normative power’ in international crises fails to satisfy a number of important aspects. In such a context there is a need to develop more precise and politically neutral instruments to analyse the European Union’s activities in the international sphere.