The evolving Euro-Mediterranean partnership : towards more functional and decentralised approaches?

Abstract

This paper focuses on the evolving EU-Mediterranean relationship, from the initial trade agreements to the partnership of today. The year 1957 may be considered as the starting date because it is in this year that the Mediterranean countries started gaining independence and also because the EEC Treaty established a commitment towards the Mediterranean countries. Part I is concerned with the various agreements developed between the EU and the Mediterranean countries up to the nineties, taking into consideration the geopolitical environment, particularly following the turmoils of 1989. Part II explores the challenges for cooperation brought about by the altered international environment, focusing on the Mediterranean oriented Programmes and on the new directions offered by the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership. In Part III, the potential contribution of science and technology to the social and economic progress of the Mediterranean countries is investigated. In this respect, while the endeavour is to focus on cooperation in science and technology within an EU-Mediterranean perspective, the developments of cooperation at this level between the EU member states have also been considered. At a time of reflection on the possible ways and means of future developments, this journey, which traces the evolution of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership, provides an insight into past failures and successes and hence offers a better understanding of the framework within which the Partnership may be further developed. Finally, this study stimulates reflection on the significance of scientific and technological cooperation and the mutual benefits that such cooperation can provide.