The First Twenty Years of the European Defence Agency: Assessment, Challenges and Prospects

The European Defence Agency (EDA) has been a cornerstone in the European Union’s efforts to strengthen its common security and defence policy. The chapter provides a comprehensive assessment of the EDA’s first two decades, analysing its achievements, its shortcomings, and its past and future challenges. The contribution examines the EDA’s role in fostering cooperation among Member States, promoting joint capabilities, and supporting research and technology. Furthermore, it delves into the agency’s contributions to enhancing European strategic autonomy and concludes by exploring future perspectives for the EDA, considering the evolving security landscape and the increasing expectations placed on the agency.