Conclusion: Assessment of the EU Geopolitical Actorness in a Shifting World Order

This chapter proposes a general conclusion of the edited book by presenting the main lessons to be drawn from the theoretical observations and empirical studies. It aims to provide a summary of the European Union (EU) geopolitical actorness in a changing world. This concluding chapter highlights several cross-cutting results and is built on contribution findings to spot evidence of EU’s current geopolitical leadership. It addresses the EU’s resilience in a post-pandemic global context marked by new geopolitical turbulence such as the wars in Ukraine and in the Middle East. Furthermore, this chapter reflects on change in the structures of the world order. As power is currently shifting within global governance at the expense of traditional powers, this conclusion seeks to reflect on European positioning. In doing so, it addresses current strengths and weaknesses in its engagement toward new players like China and Russia. This concluding chapter analyzes this competing international context and EU geopolitical strategy in order to further consolidate its actorness.