Eine geopolitische EU ohne außenpolitisches Zentrum? Das Amt des Hohen Vertreters zwischen geopolitischem Druck und institutioneller Neuerung

This article analyses the development of the office of the EU High Representative/Vice-President of the European Commission (HR/VP) in the geopolitical era. Three structural shifts have shaped the scope for action since its inception in 2009: the return of power politics, the rise of geo-economic instruments, and political fragmentation among member states. At the same time, the Commission has significantly expanded its foreign policy role, weakening the position of the HR/VP and the European External Action Service. The office holders have responded to this with different priorities—from Catherine Ashton’s operational diplomacy to Mogherini's strategic orientation to Josep Borrell’s focus on crisis and security. Kaja Kallas now exemplifies an office that is politically exposed but institutionally limited. This article discusses reform options and argues that Germany, in particular, remains dependent on a coherent and effectively organized EU foreign policy.