How can neutral member states play a role in the European Union’s PESCO? : a case study of Malta

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation is to analyse how neutral member states, in particular Malta, can play a role in PESCO, while being able to maintain a position of neutrality whilst participating in enhanced cooperation and play an active role as a member of the European Union. The dissertation attempts to do so through an analysis of the present literature on neutrality, and a theoretical underpinning, making use of the realist balance of power theory as well as collective defence theory. In its case study analyses, the dissertation will analyse PESCO itself and the positions of the five main players of the EU; Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom; and the other four neutral member states; Ireland, Austria, Sweden and Finland. The dissertation then makes an analysis of the PESCO projects individually and attempts to infer whether participation in these projects can be done while maintaining a policy of neutrality.