Publication

Germany’s decision not to take part in NATO’s military intervention in Libya marked the emancipation of its security policy from those of the US and France. Germany, in short, no longer feels compelled to provide military or political support for overseas operations initiated by its key allies, even if they are legitimized by the UN Security Council. In the domestic sphere, this new stance represents a starting point for a discussion about Germany’s military role within broader international security policy structures. As this commentary concludes, this debate will bring about a more assertive and selective approach on Germany’s part to cooperating with NATO and the EU’s Common Security and Defense Policy.