EU Policy in Eastern Partnership Countries: A Comprehensive Analysis of Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding Strategies

Abstract

The Eastern Partnership (EaP) region has long been at the center of geopolitical tensions and conflicts that challenge regional stability and security. The European Union (EU) has been actively involved in these EaP countries, implementing various policies and strategies aimed at conflict resolution and peacebuilding. Understanding the effectiveness of these efforts is crucial, given the ongoing and evolving nature of conflicts, including recent escalations in Ukraine. This study is significant as it provides an in-depth analysis of the EU's conflict resolution and peacebuilding approaches, contributing to the broader discourse on international conflict management and regional stability. This research explores the effectiveness of the EU’s policies and strategies by analysing their impact on conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts. It examines the various mechanisms and tools used by the EU, including diplomatic engagements, economic assistance and security cooperation, and assesses their outcomes. The study also includes a comparative analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of EU strategies across different countries in the region, highlighting similarities and differences in their approaches. EU policies have had some successes in mitigating conflicts and promoting stability, but significant challenges remain. Persistent conflicts and crises continue to undermine stability despite EU interventions. The research highlights that while the EU’s diverse mechanisms and tools have contributed to peacebuilding, there are gaps in their effectiveness and implementation. The study concludes with recommendations for improving EU strategies and interventions, aiming to enhance their impact and address the complexities of conflict resolution in the Eastern Partnership region.