Search

The article discusses how Belgium managed to successfully fulfill its term of European Union (EU) Presidency in 2010, despite having a caretaker government. It argues that Belgium's domestic problems did not significantly impair Belgium's Presidency due to a combination of experience, consensus, and preparation. The effect of the Lisbon Treaty on EU foreign policy and the trio Presidency format is also noted. The role of the rotating EU Presidency is discussed in terms of the Lisbon rules and procedures, as well as the EU's increased focus on financial and economic governance.

An article is presented that reports on the appointments of Herman van Rompuy as the President of the European Council and of Baroness Catherine Ashton as the European Union's (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The appointments of Rompuy and Ashton to these roles occurred on November 19, 2009 and drew mixed reactions from European politicians. The article discusses Rompuy and Ashton's prior political roles, noting the Ashton's nomination was generally a surprise. Information is provided on the European Parliament, foreign policy and international relations, and the Lisbon Treaty.

An article is presented that reports on the Swedish Presidency of the European Council in terms of former President Fredrik Reinfeldt in 2001. The Swedish European Union (EU) Council Presidency was significant in European politics before the ratification of the Treaty of Lisbon in 2009 due to its realistic expectations and achievements, its efficient strategies, and its affect on domestic politics. The article discusses subjects including domestic and international stability and instability in Europe, as well as the European Parliament and the European Commission.

An article is presented that reports on foreign relations in Europe between the European Union (EU) and nonmember countries in 2009. In 2009, the EU improved its existing policies and developed commissions for foreign and security relationships with neighboring countries. The article discusses the increase in the number of applications for EU membership, noting how the desire for membership alters relations and the effectiveness of EU conditionality. Information is also provided on conflicts in Eastern Europe, the Treaty of Lisbon for integration, the 21st century global financial crisis, and countries including Switzerland and Norway.

This study empirically investigates the two options which were considered by the German presidency for finding a solution to the crisis of the EU's reform process. Our findings reveal that making concessions to the remaining eight ratification countries and renegotiating the text with all Member States were feasible solutions for reform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]