Constructing the Euro-Mediterranean Space: Where are We Headed?

The conference “Constructing the Euro-Mediterranean Space: where are we headed?” dealt with the political, economic and technological divide that currently persists between the northern and southern shores of the Mediterranean, and the effect these gaps will have once the region becomes a “free trade area”, in 2010. Much of the discussion was dedicated to consideration of the Mediterranean Union (MU), a “variable geometry” organism to be launched in June 2008 and which should breathe new life into Euro-Mediterranean cooperation. The MU will not substitute existing institutions, but complement them. “Equality” rather than “partnership” should be the buzz word: governments will have to make decisions and choices on a level playing field, involving local actors and businesses. Participants expressed the hope that projects will be launched to guarantee the free circulation of people, services and goods. In order to favor integration, a series of cultural projects were proposed, to improve education and communication all around the sea. Needless to say, there was some disagreement: some participants expressed doubts about such efforts’ potential for success, particularly as the focus is too often on finding common values rather than teaching about cultural differences. In economic terms, projects should focus on building up infrastructure, bank services, welfare programs and environmental protection. Finally, participants underscored the need to involve the United States in every effort to integrate Europe and the Mediterranean region, as that country’s role has always been strategic.