Pittsburgh MEU 2023 Blog Post
Mackenzie Hansen
During the February 10–11, 2023 Model European Union meeting at the University of Pittsburgh, held almost a year after the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the discourse was dominated by security policy concerns. The agenda featured pivotal topics, notably strategic energy independence with a focus on recent efforts to engage Azerbaijan for LNG terminals and escalating aggressive actions and rhetoric by Turkey concerning a disputed border in the Aegean Sea.
As a representative of Greece, I proposed a resolution with the objective of coordinating a response to intensifying Turkish aggression. Sponsored by both France and Greece, it aimed to address security and stability challenges. This document emphasized the violation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, citing the deployment of Turkish warships to disputed areas and threats of ballistic missile deployment by President Erdogan. The directive underscored the importance of collective defense and military support for Greece, urging member states to increase defense expenditures. It proposed allocating €10 billion from the 2023 collective defense budget to empower Greece in safeguarding its maritime borders. Additionally, €500 million from the European Peace Facility was suggested to support Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) responses in favor of Greece. The directive also called for an escalation of plans for strategic autonomy.
Also, acknowledging the emergency situation given the devastating aftermath of the earthquake on February 6th, the directive advocated for de-escalation efforts through extending humanitarian aid to the Turkish people. Responding to Turkey’s activation of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, it proposed promises of additional long-term rescEU assistance. The directive emphasized expressing solidarity with the Turkish people, encouraging the involvement of civil society groups in aid administration, and mobilizing further assistance for vulnerable refugee populations.
Although my proposed directive was not adopted, the ensuing discussions proved valuable, fostering an excellent dialogue with my peers concerning these prominent challenges at the forefront of EU foreign policy and has contributed, even in retrospect, to deepen my own understanding of the complex geopolitical landscape in early 2023.
This publication was produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of UNC, Pitt, and FIU, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.
