Between NATO and UN: EU Strategic Culture and its Approach to Civil-Military Cooperation

Abstract

The European Union's approach to civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) in crisis response incorporates two different perspectives. The EU's official concept is shaped after NATO's military-centred vision and is subordinated to the achievement of military goals. However, the application of CIMIC in EU-led crisis response resembles the UN civilian-centred approach, aiming at supporting civilian environment and protection of humanitarian space. This article discusses this complex nature of the EU's approach to CIMIC in the context of the Union's strategic culture.