Author:

Keywords:

Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Science, Government & Law, MANAGEMENT, 1605 Policy and Administration, 1606 Political Science, 4407 Policy and administration, 4408 Political science

Abstract:

This article assesses how and to what extent the European Union (EU) uses a security perspective to define and shape its relationship with the developing world. In order to evaluate the EU's development policy and its relations with developing countries, we link the concept of 'security-development nexus' with the concept of 'securitization'. The article examines whether securitization can be observed with regard to four dimensions: discourse, policy instruments, policy actions and institutional framework. The analysis demonstrates a securitization of the EU's development policy and its relations with developing countries, particularly in Africa. However, paradoxically, the securitization's extent and nature suggest the EU can also use it as a way to avoid a more direct involvement in conflict areas.