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Mary Jane Dempsey Alia K. Nardini

Abstract

The European Union (EU) is currently facing an uncertain future as member states debate the importance of political and economic cooperation. Although the organisation was founded on liberal principles, national discourses based on realist strategies have become more prevalent, spurred by debates on borders and identity issues. In essence, Europe cannot be liberal in principle while pursuing realist policies. Focusing on the concept of identity, this paper argues for a theoretical redirection of the EU, calling for a new geopolitical concept of identity based on its liberal tradition.

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Article Keywords

European Union, identity, liberalism, realism

Section
Commentary
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