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The European Union is considering reducing staff at many of its embassies to refocus resources on strategically important regions, a move sparking concerns about its global influence, particularly in Africa and Latin America. This potential reshuffle comes as the EU’s External Action Service (EEAS) faces budget constraints after overspending for 2024 and rising inflation.
Strategic Reallocation: The EU wants to concentrate diplomatic efforts on countries of strategic interest, such as those aspiring to join the EU, G20 nations, and regions posing security risks. This approach aligns with the Global Gateway project, the EU’s answer to China’s global trade and infrastructure initiatives.
Cutbacks in Africa and Latin America: Over 30 African nations and key Latin American countries like Brazil face reduced diplomatic presence. While embassies will remain open, staff consolidation into regional hubs is being considered. Critics argue this undermines relationships in areas vital to EU interests, contradicting past commitments, like the 2019 “pivot to Africa.”
Operational Challenges: The proposal raises concerns about leaving local staff in limbo, potentially leading to layoffs for nearly 800 local officers. Smaller EU member states, which depend on EU embassies for diplomatic reach, fear losing access to intelligence and foreign officials.
Some officials worry reduced presence could create power vacuums for rivals like Russia and China to exploit. Others argue the reform risks signaling a retreat, especially in unstable regions such as Sudan or Niger. There is skepticism within the EEAS itself, with some saying the idea is premature and may face significant pushback. The decision, which will be discussed by EU leaders in December, underscores a balancing act between budget constraints and maintaining global influence during a period of geopolitical challenges, including Russia’s war in Ukraine and potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy.
[Source: Politico]
