After Barkhane: What France’s military drawdown means for the Sahel
Emmanuel Macron took allies by surprise when he announced the end of Operation Barkhane. But his new plans do not appear to offer the change of tack the Sahel needs.
Middle East and North Africa
Back from the brink: A better way for Europe to support Tunisia’s democratic transition
The EU and its member states can assist Tunisian leaders by providing new investment – and thereby reboot the democratic transition
The election of President Ebrahim Raisi and the future of Iran
Does the election of Raisi represent a significant change of direction following the term of President Rouhani?
Four steps to support Europe-Iran trade under a revived JCPOA
Even if the JCPOA is restored, European companies will hesitate to trade in Iran. European and American officials should work together to give companies the comfort they need.
A familiar victory: Iran’s divides under a new president
Raisi’s election victory will not make Iranian politics any less volatile. Instead, it signals another of the cyclical changes in Iran’s politics that have taken place since 1979.
Cooling-off: How Europe can help stabilise the Middle East
As countries across the Middle East pause to take stock of recent conflicts, Europeans need to do more to support dialogue
Turkey beyond Erdogan: How the EU risks letting down Turkish democrats
The Turkish president no longer commands all before him. The EU should turn its attention to supporting democratic forces in the country.
Prospects for EU-Turkey relations from a German point of view
The EU and Turkey have a mutual strategic interest in developing a constructive, cooperative, and sustainable relationship
Why Europe needs a rights-based policy after the Gaza conflict
ECFR council members call on Europe to push forward a rights-based policy to break the cycle of conflict in Israel-Palestine
Understanding the conflict in Western Sahara
What is the Western Sahara conflict is all about, and how will the most recent developments between Morocco and Spain influence this conflict?