Defending european identity: Strategic compass and ontological security in International Relations

Abstract

The dilemma about the existence of a European identity is still generating long and complex debates, specially within the field of International Relations. Truthfully, when we speak about a European Identity, we are referring to a subjectivity that comes from multiple subjectivities; herein lies the importance of studying the European-self; not only as a communal ethos as a result of the interactions between the units comprising its cultural conglomerate, but also as a prevailing notion that has evolved and has managed to endure as part of a system in which, historically, the relations with Others have been fundamentally conflictual. In efforts to reduce the possibilities of conflict and foster a peaceful environment that guarantees an effective integration process, Europe has recognized that their security goes beyond whatever is happening in their own borders. Consequently, the European Union's participation in the international system has increased steadily until the geopolitical events in 2022, which raised the need to find new directions in defining a specific foreign policy in regard to security and defense, leading to a Strategic Compass and, perhaps, a fully developed European Union ready to defend its latent identity.