CSPO 23A08 - Challenges, Past and Future of the Euro-Mediterranean relations

This course examines the evolution and challenges of the Euro-Mediterranean partnership, from the 1995 Barcelona Declaration to the current European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP).

Before entering into the core of the Barcelona Process, the course will start with reframing the idea of the Mediterranean, reviewing the crucial idea of the Mediterranean as a ‘Moment space’ (Braudel); or as ‘an immagined community’ (Anderson). It will then review critically the Mediterranean’s symbolic geography and inquire into the question of a regional identity. Students are invited to actively participate in this study through presentations intended at thinking critically about regional institutions, in the context of critical geopolitics and Global studies.

Second, the course shall insert the Euro mediterranean partnership in its historical and geopolitical context, highlighting its connection to the Middle East Peace Process and its aim to foster North-South cooperation. Key readings will provide an overview of its initial aspirations and its entanglement with the Arab-Israeli conflict, the post 9/11 and how the Mediterranean was reimagined as a symbolic “imagined community,” prioritizing cultural dialogue to bridge divides. In this phase, students will develop skills in analysing and framing the Foundational texts on multilateralism, nationalism and EU initiatives.

The second part of the course will critically evaluate the Barcelona Process, its programmes and institutions debating why it failed to meet its ambitious goals, with a focus on geopolitical and institutional limitations.

Through interactive activities, including Euromed Simulations in various fields of the ‘Southern neigborhood policy’, Students will engage in debates, and diplomatic discussions enhancing their understanding of institutional decision-making and multilateral negotiations.

All through the course, students will develop skills in critical analysis, diplomacy, and conflict resolution, gaining a comprehensive understanding of three decades of Euro-Mediterranean cooperation. They should also be able to formulate creative scenari for a stronger future Euromed cooperation.

[Participation in class activities 10% + Final Simulation 15%]

Debate dossier 20%

(Hand in dossier the day of the Simulation)