The role of small states in promoting regional initiatives in the European Union : case study : Malta and Cyprus' Mediterranean role in the EU

Abstract

In recent years, small EU member states have come into the limelight of scholarly literature, especially after the 2004 enlargement. However it is still in its infancy, with the focus being more on the impact of EU integration on these states. The group of small states in the EU is far from being homogenous; however they share common hindrances, such as small bargaining power, small administrations and lower number of votes and MEPs as a result of institutional arrangements. Nevertheless, "smallness" does not necessarily mean "no influence". On the contrary, smallness can be part of a "smart state strategy", where main priorities are underlined and the right strategies are used. One example of priorities for small states is regional/sub-regional related issues. By placing the neighbouring region as part of its priorities for the EU, the small state can gain leverage both at an EU level and also within the region itself. An example of this is the case of two small member states: Malta and Cyprus, in their quest to gain clout at an EU level through promoting Mediterranean issues. For these two micro-states, the Mediterranean plays a prominent role in the foreign policies of these countries; include EU-related foreign policies. Both are uniquely geographically located almost between three continents: Europe, Asia and Africa, which in turn makes them natural "interconnectors" between the EU and the southern neighbourhood. Furthermore, being located in an area dominated with turbulence and high security risks, it is natural that the region will feature in the highest priorities of these countries. Both Malta and Cyprus have their own priorities for the region. Some of the priorities are shared between these countries, and also work together on these common issues.