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EU: Spain's Forced Agenda a Perfect Fit
January 7, 2002
Summary
Spain took over the European Union's rotating presidency Jan. 1. In a break from the past, events have forced an agenda upon Madrid, but the issues on the table -- the euro switchover, union expansion and terrorism -- are ones it is well-positioned to take on.
Analysis
Spain assumed the rotating six-month presidency of the European Union on Jan. 1.
Unlike that of most of its predecessors, Madrid's EU agenda largely has been predetermined by events of recent months. However, Spain, though it didn't have much role in shaping the agenda, is very capable of pursuing it. The result should be a successful presidency that pushes the frontier of European policies regarding security integration, budgetary reform and, of course, the euro.
Normally, when a state assumes the presidency, it brings a series of issues to the table that reflect its own view of how Europe should be. France wanted to entrench its often dominant position. Sweden tried to spread its own version of social welfare. Finland sought to improve relations with Russia. Spain's immediate predecessor, Belgium, was no exception: Although it hit the ground running with an agenda that included social harmonization and a direct European tax, member fatigue and outright disdain over such centralized control eventually turned Brussels' presidency into a failure.
For the first time in several years, EU members broadly agree on certain issues that need to be addressed. Although the union will not be immune to petty bickering under Spain's leadership, the nature of the agenda and Spain's own history make Madrid more likely to achieve lasting results that will strengthen and benefit the union as a whole.
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(c) 2002 Stratfor, Inc.
Dan
EU: Spain's Forced Agenda a Perfect Fit . . .