EU MEDIATION IN ARMED CONFLICTS IN THE XXI CENTURY: ACHIEVEMENTS AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

The beginning of the 21st century is characterized by escalating global instability, an increase in the number of local wars, and the emergence of new hybrid threats. In this context, the European Union is undergoing a transformation from being exclusively a “normative power” and economic giant to a geopolitical actor capable of influencing the global security architecture. The relevance of the study is driven by the necessity to rethink the EU’s role as a mediator amidst the crisis of effectiveness of international organizations and the escalation of the Russian-Ukrainian war, which has become a catalyst for changes in European security approaches. The article provides a comprehensive political science analysis of the EU mediation model in armed conflicts. It has been established that Brussels’ modern strategy is based on the “Integrated Approach,” which combines diplomatic efforts, Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP)  instruments, humanitarian aid, and economic incentives. The institutional architecture of mediation has been analyzed, including the activities of the European External Action Service (EEAS), the institution of EU Special Representatives, and the deployment of civilian and military missions. The article examines the geography of EU mediation in detail(Balkans, Sahel Region, Middle East). Special emphasis is placed on the mediation role of the EU in the Russian-Ukrainian war. It has been found that after 2022, the Union’s role transformed from a diplomatic mediator (in the format of sanctions pressure) to a key security donor and political guarantor of Ukraine’s resilience. The conclusions propose ways to strengthen the institution of EU mediation, namely the transition to qualified majority voting in foreign policy matters, achieving strategic autonomy in defense, strengthening preventive diplomacy, and systematically countering the information influence of rival actors.