THE POWER OF THE FRANCO - GERMAN ENGINE - An analysis of the Franco- German relationship and its impact on integration in EU Security &amp; Defence policy

In light of the recent revival of the Franco-German Axis (Macron-Merkel) and advances in EU Security & Defence policy through PESCO, this thesis provides both a historical and political analysis of the special Franco-German relationship within the EU and its impact on integration by focussing on the policy area of Security & Defence in particular. It uses the theory of rational neo institutionalism to explain the process of EU integration in Security & Defence and the institutionalisation of bilateral relations between France & Germany. It moreover provides a case study in which the actual impact of the Franco-German order will be studied through process tracing of the integration process in security & defence after the Maastricht Treaty. In this case study the dysfunctionalities of the Franco-German engine and the lack of leadership in the area of security & defence is demonstrated in detail. However, the level of influence that both countries can exercise when they act together...Show moreIn light of the recent revival of the Franco-German Axis (Macron-Merkel) and advances in EU Security & Defence policy through PESCO, this thesis provides both a historical and political analysis of the special Franco-German relationship within the EU and its impact on integration by focussing on the policy area of Security & Defence in particular. It uses the theory of rational neo institutionalism to explain the process of EU integration in Security & Defence and the institutionalisation of bilateral relations between France & Germany. It moreover provides a case study in which the actual impact of the Franco-German order will be studied through process tracing of the integration process in security & defence after the Maastricht Treaty. In this case study the dysfunctionalities of the Franco-German engine and the lack of leadership in the area of security & defence is demonstrated in detail. However, the level of influence that both countries can exercise when they act together has been highly significant in the process of European Integration. The qualitative research that upholds this thesis consists of a vast number of academic sources including books, articles, and empirical studies. Next to that a number, of official EU documents and transcripts is used as part of the cases study.. However, this thesis does not fully analyse the vast number of other factors playing a role in the integration process concerning its scope.Show less

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THE POWER OF THE FRANCO - GERMAN ENGINE - An analysis of the Franco- German relationship and its impact on integration in EU Security & Defence policy