The EU Democratisation of The Southern Neighbours Since the “Arab Spring”: An Inherently Inadequate Approach

This Article draws on the analysis of historical relations between European Union and Southern Mediterranean countries highlights main initiatives consequences adopted practices democratisation in region following Arab Uprisings. The focus is continuity limited changes new approach. One findings that reform EU approach primarily resulted from inherited political constraints. net result was a set structured security-orientated relationships will continue to repeat earlier mistakes before 2011. mechanisms democracy promotion including conditionality remained inherently full contradictions. double standards applying principle addition lack significant leverage rendered neighbours inapt. Despite 2011 ENP review promise substantial change approach, it seems EU’s initial euphoria “Arab spring” has waned as same old liberalisation securitisation rather than democratisation.