Europe’s defence dimension is an ambiguous subject which some people feel passionate about and most find too technical. It is bound up with illusions and marked by divisions. In reality, few civil or military leaders outside a limited circle of specialists have a clear idea of the challenges and limits of what is called l’Europe de la défense in France.

It is, however, an important subject that is a significant aspect of the construction of Europe and reveals the various member states’ ambitions for Europe.

So where are we now? Have we laid the foundation stones for an integrated European army, as certain commentators state with delight or indignation? Or have we created a pale imitation of NATO that is powerless, as others insinuate? Neither of these. European defence is now a concrete reality that gives the Union a new, welcome capability for international action. All the same, its rapid development must not mask its limits and its weaknesses. They are many and are difficult to overcome but the Lisbon Treaty, if ratified, will open up real prospects for consolidating and strengthening what is to become the Common Security and Defence Policy.