The current geopolitical climate and the rise of complex transnational, hybrid threats have rehashed decades-old debates on whether European countries should increase intelligence cooperation to improve readiness for war, crisis or conflict.
This article examines existing intelligence sharing schemes in Europe, both within and beyond the European Union. The analysis demonstrates that the lack of trust between national intelligence agencies and the EU’s reliance on the intelligence provided by Member States (MSs) undermines the efforts towards a unified European intelligence community. Accordingly, recommended lines of action are provided to help overcome this challenge. In particular, the creation of an independent EU intelligence agency is suggested, arguing that such an institution would enable better-informed decision-making and planning, and more effective counterintelligence independent of, but allowing for, MSs’ contribution.
About the Author:
Clara Torregrosa Basco is a researcher and contributor to Finabel, the European Army Interoperability Centre, where she provides analysis on European defence and security policies.