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Italy's Visions for Democracy Support in the European Neighbourhood: Review, Assessment, and Prospects

Democratisation
European Union
Foreign Policy
International Relations
Małgorzata Maria Fijał
Jagiellonian University
Małgorzata Maria Fijał
Jagiellonian University

Abstract

The European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) represents a key framework for the EU’s engagement with its neighbouring countries, aiming to promote stability, prosperity, and democratic development. As the EU and its member states continue to address the complex challenges of fostering democracy within the ENP, understanding the specific contributions and experiences of countries like Italy - a country widely perceived as a kind of bridge between the North and the South and the East and the West - is crucial for shaping future policies and strategies. Italy's historical experience and position as a founding member of the EU, combined with its geographical proximity to regions in the European neighbourhood, such as North Africa, has made this country treat supporting democracy as a fundamental element of its foreign policy for several decades. This paper attempts to analyse synthetically Italy's participation in the ENP regarding democracy support by examining both its historical involvement and contemporary initiatives. In addition, it will interpret how both political and developmental aspects of democracy support are intertwined. The basis of this analysis is to focus on whether Italy’s strategy for supporting democracy is rooted in values and morality or leans towards pragmatism. When reviewing Italy's approach to supporting democracy within the ENP, it seems that, due to its geographical location, the country tends to focus more on promoting the ENP Mediterranean countries than the Eastern Partnership countries. Can we expect a change in its approach after Russia's full military aggression against Ukraine? Empirically, the assessment is based on a discursive analysis of Italy's policies, financial allocations, and institutional engagements. This research is part of the Horizon Europe project SHAPEDEM-EU (Rethinking and Reshaping the EU’s democracy support in its Eastern and Southern Neighbourhood).