Malta and Cyprus : their effect on the common foreign and security policy

Abstract

Small states in the European Union face several challenges, but perhaps the main challenge is that their power is diluted in several aspects while their voice could be ignored. The EU indeed offers many opportunities for all states especially the smaller ones, however, the EU also presents small states with challenges that are not found in other parts or unions in the world. The two small Mediterranean states, Malta and Cyprus, are both located in an interesting geographical situation, with Cyprus near Turkey and Syria whilst Malta lies between Sicily and North Africa. The geographical position of both states enhances the need for further security policy embellishment. Malta and Cyprus are compared in this study because they are both EU member states in the Mediterranean. Both islands have worked their way to autonomy through the years (McLean, 1985). Both island states fit into the definition of 'small states', while both have signed their accession into the EU in 2004. Moreover, both states have shown very determined participation in multiple Union policies. In this way, they have also affected the EU`s Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP). Moreover, these two islands are the gateway for the security of the Mediterranean because they are on the border concerning Africa and Turkey. This research will therefore present Malta and Cyprus' contributions to different CFSP missions. Both islands naturally give great importance to the situation in the Mediterranean. Their influence within the EU and the CFSP is evident, despite their size or capabilities, which is why they are an essential part of the security framework. To conclude this study and determine the small states' challenges, the following research questions will be undertaken: What are the security challenges of small states within the EU? • How did Malta and Cyprus become part of the Common Foreign and Security Policy? • What is Malta`s and Cyprus` progress in the Common Foreign and Security Policy? • What effect did Malta and Cyprus have about the Common Foreign and Security Policy? In the conclusion of this study, answers and considerations will be formulated for the active role of both island states within the framework of the CFSP.