The International Crisis Group has released its EU Watch List for 2025, highlighting critical areas where the European Union and its member states can improve their approach to promoting peace and addressing global challenges. This annual report provides a roadmap for the EU to enhance its crisis management and conflict prevention efforts.
*Top Recommendations:*
1. *Revitalize the Middle East Peace Process*:
The EU should engage more actively in Middle East peace efforts.
2. *Strengthen EU Engagement in the Sahel*:
The EU should bolster its diplomatic, security and development efforts in the Sahel region.
3. *Support a Negotiated Settlement in Ukraine*:
The EU should prioritize diplomatic efforts to achieve a negotiated settlement in Ukraine.
*Regional Focus Areas:*
– *Middle East and North Africa*:
The EU should prioritize conflict prevention and crisis management in countries such as Libya, Syria and Yemen.
– *Sub-Saharan Africa*:
The EU should focus on addressing the root causes of conflict and instability in regions like the Sahel and the Horn of Africa.
– *Eastern Europe*:
The EU should maintain its support for Ukraine and engage in diplomatic efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
*Key Recommendations for EU Member States:*
– *Enhance EU-NATO Cooperation*:
EU member states should strengthen their cooperation with NATO to address shared security challenges.
– *Increase Support for UN Peacekeeping*:
EU member states should increase their financial and troop contributions to UN peacekeeping operations.
– *Foster Greater EU Consensus on Global Issues*: EU member states should work to build greater consensus on key global issues, such as climate change and pandemics.
The EU Watch List 2025 provides a comprehensive framework for the EU and its member states to improve their response to global challenges and enhance prospects for peace. By prioritizing conflict prevention, crisis management and diplomatic engagement, the EU can play a more effective role in promoting peace and stability worldwide.
