EU Associates: Third-State Involvement in EU Foreign Policy Decision-Making

The European Union (EU) invites neighbouring states to contribute to the implementation of its foreign and security policy, but it does not offer involvement in relevant EU decision-making. This article makes the case for an associate status in the framework of the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP). It examines how third states can be involved in both CFSP decision-shaping and decision-taking and discusses the political implications and legal requirements of such arrangements.