23 April 2012
Posted in
National News
The AIIA has published its April 2012 Policy Commentary, entitled ‘No Eutopia: The European Union Today’. The ongoing ‘euro crisis’ in the European Union is one of the most important issues in international relations today. The headlines have been filled with stories about debt levels and austerity measures in Greece, mass unemployment in Spain and prophecies that Europe is disintegrating. At the same time, cooperation on a Common Foreign and Security Policy is gradually increasing and the EU now provides over half of all overseas development aid worldwide. The EU is Australia’s second largest trading partner and negotiations are ongoing to enhance bilateral relations through a treaty level partnership agreement. Yet, despite seemingly close relations, knowledge about the EU in Australia is relatively limited: a survey showed 63% of Australians had never even heard of the European Commission. With these developments afoot, it is timely to have a further look at the European Union, both at how it is faring as it struggles to deal with the economic crisis and what the EU today means for Australia.
In this volume, Peter O’Shea looks at the EU’s response to the current euro crisis and argues that the crisis, far from leading to the collapse of the eurozone, is already providing the impetus for renewed integration. Donald Kenyon AM gives an overview of EU-Australia trade and suggests that current cooperation in trade is the best it has been in decades, with re-engagement overcoming historical tensions. Professor Martin Holland sketches a vision of a European entity that is growing into its international role: somewhat hesitantly in defence policy; more confidently in development aid and poverty reduction. Together, the contributors suggest that while Europe is no utopia, it will continue to develop, including through crisis and conflict, in ways that have global impact. For Australians, Europe should remain an area for active interest and engagement.
The Policy Commentary will be launched at AIIA WA Branch tomorrow evening.
It can be downloaded here: 
AIIA Policy Commentary April 2012 - No Eutopia: The European Union Today (531.92 kB)
The AIIA is pleased to announce a partnership with Austraining International to deliver a number of talks at AIIA Branches around the country. The talks will be given by returned international volunteers who will share their experiences of volunteering abroad. Events will be held at ACT, QLD and WA Branches and AIIA VIC and will be advertised shortly.