ESDP@10: what lessons for the future?

The EUISS organised a conference jointly with the Swedish Presidency of the EU and in collaboration with the Swedish Institute of International Affairs in Brussels on 28 July 2009. The event – which was also the occasion for the launch of the Institute's new book 'What ambitions for European defence in 2020?' - brought together policymakers, experts and key figures in EU affairs.

In his opening remarks, EU High Representative Javier Solana emphasised the crucial role played by the EU in contributing effectively to international peace and security and described the development of the ESDP’s crisis management capacity as crucial to its future success. Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt spoke of the need to match EU military capabilities with the right instruments and placed importance on the development of a 'software' of policies - be they economic, rule of law, or with respect to external security.

Other topics covered at the conference included ‘Post-conflict stabilisation: the ESDP experience and future needs’, ‘Bridging the gap: ESDP, CFSP and external action’ and ‘ESDP in a changing world’.