Josep Borrell concludes his role as the European Union’s chief diplomat marked by five intense years of global challenges. His era saw the European Union navigate turbulent times with diplomacy at the forefront.
From the Ukrainian conflict to the Middle East’s ongoing turmoil, Borrell championed a proactive EU stance despite internal disagreements. Under his leadership, the bloc faced significant geopolitical shifts.
A Reflective Farewell
Josep Borrell’s time as the top diplomat for the European Union is coming to a close after five eventful years. Throughout this period, Borrell faced the arduous task of aligning the interests of 27 diverse countries. Amid these challenges, he successfully made a significant personal impact and built valuable connections across different nations.
His experience was marked by several key global crises, notably the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia’s invasive actions in Ukraine, and the conflicts in the Middle East. These events thrust him into a critical leadership role, shaping the EU’s proactive responses. Despite various hurdles, Borrell managed to foster collaboration among the member states, striving to maintain unity in the face of adversity.
Responding to Unprecedented Challenges
Borrell’s leadership was deeply tested during the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He advocated for a groundbreaking decision for the EU to finance weapon deliveries to a country in conflict. This proposal initially attracted scepticism, with discussions revolving around an estimated 50 million euros (£42 million).
Borrell recounted urging his colleagues, “Put a zero behind,” advocating a more substantial response. This was a crucial shift in EU foreign policy. The result was extensive military aid to Ukraine, amounting to billions. His tenure was also significant for implementing sanctions against Russia, amidst dissent from some EU nations, such as Hungary.
Borrell’s candid approach often placed him at odds with other European leaders. He was unafraid to express dissent, challenging the status quo. He emphasised the need for the EU to adapt swiftly to global power dynamics, advocating for more cohesive decision-making.
“One has to break taboos,” Borrell stated, reflecting on the necessity to transcend traditional diplomatic limits. He saw his role akin to that of a “propeller,” pushing member states towards necessary actions. He consistently advocated for empowering the EU’s foreign diplomacy to ensure Europe remains a influential global force.
The Middle East Conundrum
In contrast to the handling of the Ukraine crisis, Borrell faced significant challenges concerning the Middle East, particularly the war in Gaza. The EU was notably divided, with differing views on the conflict, limiting its influence globally.
Borrell was vocally critical of what he saw as excessive actions by Israel and struggled to unify the EU’s stance. His forthright comments on social media highlighted his frustrations over the lack of collective action, asserting that violations of international law should be condemned unequivocally.
This conflict highlighted the constraints within the EU’s foreign policy. Borrell pointed out that even simple policy statements often required extensive negotiation among member states. The EU’s perceived inaction has, according to Borrell, harmed its global standing, underscoring the need for decisive and unified policies.
Gaffes and Criticism
Throughout his tenure, Borrell encountered considerable criticism, both for his high-profile mistakes and his blunt approach to diplomacy. A notable incident was his mishandled diplomatic visit to Moscow, which drew criticism for appearing ill-prepared in discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.
Despite these setbacks, Borrell learned and adapted. His efforts to counter Russia’s aggression in Ukraine were lauded by some, including Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis, who observed a noticeable evolution in Borrell’s stance towards Russia.
In summing up his tenure, Borrell acknowledged the exhausting demands of his role but highlighted moments of personal fulfilment. He cited warm receptions on visits to Ukraine and appreciation from Palestinians as memorable.
Borrell ends his term with a reflection on future challenges facing Europe. He stressed that the EU must comprehend “the language of power,” or else risk being sidelined in global matters. His anticipation of his successor, Kaja Kallas, taking a more methodical approach, reflects his hopes for a resilient EU leadership.
A Gruelling Schedule
Borrell’s role demanded relentless travel and meetings, often under high-pressure situations. He frequently visited Ukraine amid its crisis, engaging directly with leaders like President Volodymyr Zelensky. These interactions provided him with firsthand insights into the challenges faced by war-torn regions.
His dedication was evident in his robust schedule, which involved visits to strategic locations like drone factories and defensive positions close to Russia’s borders, encapsulating the intensity of his work commitments.
The physical and emotional demands of these engagements were balanced with moments of achievement and joy. Helping repatriate EU citizens during the pandemic remains a proud accomplishment for Borrell.
A Personal Perspective
Borrell’s approach to managing stress and balancing his responsibilities involved personal activities, such as hiking and reading. He often recited Spanish poetry to himself, finding solace in these familiar words during moments of reflection.
These personal habits provided him with a sense of stability amidst the often chaotic nature of international diplomacy. His humorous remark about liking to “walk quickly and read slowly” indicates a balance he aimed to maintain throughout his demanding career.
Despite leaving his role, Borrell remains concerned about Europe’s capacity to face burgeoning global issues. He acknowledges that the political landscape looks ominous, with threats looming from conflicts and political changes worldwide, stressing the importance of continued diplomatic engagement.
The Transition
As Borrell prepares to step down, his insights into the complexities of EU foreign policy serve as both a guide and a warning for his successor. He hopes for a transition that builds on his efforts to strengthen the EU’s geopolitical influence.
His reflection on his own experiences outlines the substantial challenges inherent in the position, suggesting that with determination and insight, his successor can harness these challenges as opportunities.
The Europe Of Tomorrow
Borrell’s parting words underscore the imperative for Europe to assert itself as a significant player on the international stage. He emphasised that without an active role in global affairs, Europe risks being merely a bystander.
His legacy, marked by efforts to enhance the EU’s diplomatic reach and respond decisively to international crises, serves as a blueprint for future leadership within the Union.
A Future Under New Leadership
Borrell’s confidence in Kaja Kallas, the incoming EU top diplomat, is evident in his comments wishing her well. He anticipates that her leadership will bring about effective strategies to navigate the challenges Europe faces.
He expresses hope that Kallas will benefit from the lessons learned during his tenure, and he suggests she will encounter both successes and challenges but ultimately find joy in her work.
The journey of Josep Borrell as the EU’s chief diplomat was laden with significant trials. Borrell’s legacy is shaped by his candid and sometimes controversial approach, fostering resilience and adaptation within EU policies.
