French defence- and security policy

The aim of the report is to give a broad overview of France´s defence- and security policy and to explain its priorities by seeking motives and explanations in an historic and contemporary context. The report focuses on the French view of national independence. EU, ESDP, NATO, the United States, and on France´s bilateral relations with Germany and Great Britain. Each section includes a description of the historic background, the current situation and the future outlook. The analysis shows above all that the historic context abd Gaullism have left deep imprints on the prevailing notions on France´s current self-image and view of the surrounding world. These notions have a significant impact on today´s political priorities.