Values in the EUÕs Neighbourhood Policy: Political Rhetoric or Reflection of a Coherent Policy?

Abstract

The European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) is often justified by references to its unprecedented emphasis on the Òcommitment to shared valuesÓ in future EU relations with its vicinity. Few attempts have been made, however, to critically reflect on the Òvalues dimensionÓ of the ENP. This article examines if the ENP can be sufficiently justified on the basis of the political values it embodies: It explores the extent to which the declared commitment to values in the ENP is based on a wider consensus at the EU-level; the changing emphasis on Òshared valuesÓ in the policy over time; and the degree to which the ENP adds to institutionalising political values in future EU relations with its neighbours.EU Foreign Policy, European Neighbourhood Policy, EuropeanNeighbourhood and Partnership Instrument, European Values