The post-Brexit Franco-German dynamic and small EU member states

Abstract

The United Kingdom took the decision to leave the European Union. It joined the European Economic Community in 1973, but since failed to implement Europe’s common currency and social agreements. Britain served as a lingering obstacle to foreign, security and defence-related matters. The unprecedented yet somewhat expected departure of Europe’s ‘awkward partner’ is set to reinvigorate the so-called Franco-German tandem. France ought to become Europe’s main influencer in terms of foreign and defence policy whereas Germany is anticipated to have a more prominent role in economic policy. There are divergences, however, in terms of NATO-related issues, Euro Area reform and the enlargement process. Few studies have examined the dynamics of small EU member states undergoing a process of transformation in the wake of Brexit and Franco-German leadership. The purpose of this dissertation is to determine how small EU member states develop and implement methods to effectively influence EU policies and functions. A small EU member is one which experiences lower qualified majority voting rights in the EU Council. It faces structural disadvantages owing to its limited financial, human capital and administrative potential. These inherent weaknesses can be counterbalanced by a number of strategies. This dissertation consists of a comparative case study between two small states – Malta and Luxembourg – and it demonstrates the strategies adopted by these states in responding to the power pressures arising out of Brexit.