Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 April 2023
164. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which the European Union is alert to the threats to the security of the Union and possible future members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20154/23]
View answerRussia’s appalling military aggression against Ukraine has resulted in a fundamental change in Europe’s security landscape and has highlighted more than ever the importance of European unity and solidarity in responding to the challenges that we face.
In this context, efforts have been underway at European Union level to further strengthen the European Union’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). The Strategic Compass, adopted in March of last year, outlines the way forward for the European Union in the field of security and defence including in relation to cybersecurity and hybrid threats, maritime security and emerging and developing technologies. The Strategic Compass is designed to address this major shift in the European Union’s strategic environment, and ensure that it remains a relevant, strong and coherent political actor, upholding the values and principles that underpin our democracies.
The European Union has also committed, in the context of the Strategic Compass, to strengthen security and defence cooperation with its partners, with a view to enhancing their resilience, including against hybrid attacks and cyber threats.
A tangible example of this support, is the decision by the Foreign Affairs Council on Monday 24 April to establish a CSDP Partnership Mission in the Republic of Moldova (EUPM Moldova). The objective of this civilian mission will be to enhance the resilience of the security sector in the areas of crisis management and hybrid threats, including cybersecurity and countering foreign information manipulation and interference.
The changed geopolitical context and wider threat environment in Europe also calls for consideration of the State’s approach to international security policy issues. Against this backdrop, a Consultative Forum on International Security Policy will be convened in June 2023, with a view to initiating an open and evidence-based discussion on the State’s foreign and security policy.
