We propose the English version of an article by Yves Bertoncini published by “La Revue Socialiste” and analysing the progresses and limits of the European Union external action twenty after the entry into force of the Maastricht Treaty.

This Tribune recalls that the proclamation of a “Common foreign and security policy” has fueled the recurring consideration that it doesn’t actually exist, but also to persuade people of the need for it to exist in a world where the EU is getting older and smaller. 

This Tribune combines analyses and recommandations on three complementary stands :

1 – The components of an EU external policy can be identified.

2 – Going beyond the “Europe space” is the responsibility of the promoters of an “Europe power”.

3 – The evolution of the international situation could lead to more common external actions.

This article is published in its French version by La Revue Socialiste of December 2013.