Diplomatic Service Under Scrutiny

Kaja Kalas, the EU’s leading diplomat, is at the forefront of defending the European External Action Service (EEAS), which faces calls for abolition from French and German officials.

Established in 2011, the EEAS functions as the EU’s diplomatic arm, but issues regarding its effectiveness in foreign affairs have been a recurring topic, especially following significant events like the Russian invasion of Ukraine and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. These matters have reignited debate about the EU’s diplomatic capabilities.

Recent reports from sources like Reuters and the Financial Times indicate a growing momentum among EU member states advocating for a comprehensive reform of the EEAS, with some even suggesting its complete dissolution.

An unnamed EU diplomat shared that an internal French document, which discussed these sentiments, hadn’t been officially approved, suggesting it didn’t represent France’s official stance. The document highlighted concerns that the EU’s diplomatic responses were perceived as “too slow” and “disjointed,” pointing to dysfunction between the EEAS and the European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen.

In defense of the EEAS, Karas, in an email intended for internal staff, underscored the ongoing discussions about the relationship between the EEAS, the Commission, and member states. She mentioned the heightened attention these discussions are receiving amidst the significant geopolitical challenges facing the EU.

Karas emphasized that the roles of EU institutions are clearly articulated in the Treaty and that this framework remains unchanged. She expressed her commitment to a robust EEAS, which, in her view, is essential for a stronger European foreign and security policy.

According to Reuters, a document led by the French government proposes three potential futures for the EEAS. The first suggests the European Commission should take full control of EU foreign policy, which would diminish Kalas’s authority over diplomatic delegations. The second proposal advocates transferring diplomatic functions to the Council of the EU, allowing member states to have a more operational role in foreign affairs.

The third option aims to enhance Karas’s authority by designating her as “first executive vice president,” giving her more oversight in key areas of foreign policy, including trade.

An anonymous EU official remarked that while discussions about institutional relationships are necessary, significant reforms would require treaty changes that aren’t currently on the agenda.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson from the German Foreign Ministry highlighted the need for a strong and capable EU foreign policy in our crisis-ridden world. They reflected on efforts made since the EEAS’s inception to improve decision-making processes and strengthen the shared foreign and security policy.

The EEAS is reportedly preparing options of its own, with a ministerial-level discussion on this matter planned for the next informal Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Ireland come September.