The High Representative of Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

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The High Representative of Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

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Abstract

This paper will examine the new role of The High Representative of Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (‘High Representative') that came into force in
2009 following the Lisbon Treaty signed in 2007. First, the historical background will be discussed followed by the exploration of why the position was created and the aims of the position. Next, the main criticisms of the new role will be explored before a conclusion on the likelihood of the success of the High Representative in relation to promoting the European Union as a strong, visible and coherent force on the world stage.

Historical Background
Why was the 'new' High Representative position created?
Was Baroness Catherine Ashton the right choice?

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[...] Conclusion The creation of the High Representative was a logical and necessary development to increase the unity and coherency of a foreign policy for the EU. Such an idea remains optimistic given the fact that there are twenty- seven member states that still pursue independent foreign policies. Baroness Ashton was a surprising appointee who lacks experience and has so far been unable to impress critics in her new role. However, it is essentially too early to adequately judge her performance or the effectiveness of the role in general. [...]

[...] The High Representative is key to ‘achieving the ambition of greater synergy across all aspects of External Action'. The new High Representative superseded the former High Representative for CFSP on the 1st of December 2009. The new role is extended to include coordinating the external relations of the European Commission as the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, and acting as the newly created position of Vice-President of the EC, as well as controlling the EU's Foreign Affairs Council. [...]

[...] There was an obvious need for a more coherent foreign policy that led to 6 Avery, Graham ‘Europe's Future Foreign Service', The International Spectator, Vol the reforms and the creation of the new High Representative position. The stated aim is that having a ‘single legal personality' for the EU will strengthen its negotiating power, enabling it to be more ‘effective on the world stage and a more visible partner for third countries and international organizations.' It is hoped that the Treaty of Lisbon with its ‘institutional innovations' will have a significant impact on the Union's external action and help Europe to meet the challenges of globalization with a ‘clear and unified voice'. [...]

[...] This, together with vague European unity on foreign policy issues and continued divisions, has led some to say, is not clear who is speaking for Europe The great hope that the naming of Catherine Ashton would lead to coherence has not turned true.' Obviously creating and maintaining a consistent foreign policy for such a vast and varied Union is a monumental challenge. The main question remaining is whether Ashton can overcome the initial criticisms of not displaying a ‘capacity for leadership' and providing an unconvincing ‘vision for the EU on the world stage'. [...]

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