European Energy Security: Exploring the Development of EU's External Energy Policy

Abstract: In order to explain the driving forces behind the development of a common external energy policy, the thesis investigates the gas interdependence between EU and Russia, and the implications for EU of being highly dependent on supplies from a single provider. The main argument of this thesis is that external stimuli, challenging European energy security, spur intergovernmental cooperation and lead to increased coordination of external energy policies in the EU. The research is based on qualitative method and a theoretical framework composed of realist and neoliberal theories. The study uses Walt’s theory about states cooperating as a strategy of balancing a threat/power. Moreover, by using geopolitics the study draws attention to the strategic role of resource-rich regions causing competition. Finally, Keohane and Nye’s arguments about cooperation and interdependence are used in order to demonstrate how an asymmetrical interdependence can be a source of power. The thesis demonstrates how the EU in developing a clearer strategy with objectives and instruments of ensuring European energy security, gradually has formulated a more coherent and expressive external energy policy.