The Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) is a term used in the European Union (EU) context that refers to the collective decision-making and coordination of foreign and security policies among its member states. It is an integral part of the EU's efforts to establish a more unified and coherent approach to international relations.
CFSP is primarily concerned with ensuring that EU member states speak and act with one voice on various foreign policy issues, ranging from diplomacy and humanitarian aid to peacekeeping missions and crisis management. It aims to enhance the EU's ability to promote its common values, protect its interests, and contribute to global stability and security.
The CFSP is governed by a set of principles and objectives defined in the Treaty on European Union (TEU). It involves close cooperation and coordination among member states through regular meetings and consultations at different levels, including the European Council, Council of the EU, and various diplomatic bodies.
To effectively implement the CFSP, the EU has established several institutions and instruments, such as the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the Political and Security Committee (PSC), which support the decision-making process and provide expertise and analysis.
Overall, CFSP represents the EU's attempt to establish a common foreign and security policy that goes beyond the nation-state level, promoting unity, consistency, and effectiveness in addressing global challenges and advancing the EU's role as a global actor.
