The acceleration of developments in the European defence dimension in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s has inspired some to believe that the policy area is moving away from its rigidly...Show moreThe acceleration of developments in the European defence dimension in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s has inspired some to believe that the policy area is moving away from its rigidly intergovernmental character to a more supranational path of integration. This research contradicts that suggestion. The case of defence industrial lobbying for research funds shows a cooperative relation between the European Commission and the defence industry, which indicates that neo-functionalist patterns are indeed present in the defence dimension of the EU. However, these neo-functionalist patterns have only occurred in a policy area that has to be regarded as ‘low politics’. As such, this case suggests that the conventional view that the integration of the European defence dimension can best be explained from an intergovernmentalist perspective.Show less
Few academics have taken a critical perspective on the Ukraine-Russia crisis. Therefore, this thesis examines the crisis between Ukraine and Russia from a post-colonial perspective. The case of...Show moreFew academics have taken a critical perspective on the Ukraine-Russia crisis. Therefore, this thesis examines the crisis between Ukraine and Russia from a post-colonial perspective. The case of Ukraine shows both the strengths and weaknesses of the post-colonial approach. While it is clear that a neo-colonial attitude does exist in Russia, this does not mean it directly influences individual foreign policy decisions. Post-colonialism cannot explain why Ukraine specifically is so important to Russia. Although Russia believes it has a civilising mission in the post-Soviet space in general, post-colonialism cannot explain Moscow’s specific policy response.Show less
