Leiden University Student Repository

Poehlman, Nell (2021)

European Gestaltungsmacht: Germany’s Strategic Culture’s Influence on European Strategic Autonomy

Master thesis | International Relations (MA)

This thesis investigates Germany’s interpretation of European Strategic Autonomy by looking at its strategic culture. Germany’s strategic culture, developed following World War II, emphasizes the importance of multilateralism, military restraint, and upholding the status quo. Using these elements, the thesis will evaluate how the idea of ESA aligns with Germany’s strategic culture. This paper uses an interdisciplinary lens to draw upon the disciplines of history, sociology, psychology, political science, and international relations. Along with interviews and a content analysis of primary and secondary sources, the analysis shows that Germany’s strategic culture does influence its interpretation of ESA, which effects its ambition on the topic. This is a relevant topic as in September 2021, Germany will elect a new Chancellor, offering the opportunity to transition its security and defense policies.

strategic culture

foreign policy analysis

Germany

European Union

security and defense

European Strategic Autonomy

Author

Poehlman, Nell

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Specialisation

Global Conflict in the Modern Era

Supervisors

Gerrits, A.W.M.

ECTS Credits

15

Language

en