This policy brief examines the European Union's strategic partnerships as a foreign policy tool in today's complex global landscape and questions their effectiveness, coherence, and sustainability. The pertinence of the these strategic partnership and their strategic value have become increasingly ambiguous. To address these challenges, we propose several steps for the EU to consider. Firstly, a comprehensive review of existing partnerships is necessary, including streamlining successful ones and terminating those no longer feasible. This effort should be led by the European Commission and the European External Action Service, with input from other institutions. Secondly, prioritizing partnerships with like-minded democratic states and international organizations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and the G7 countries can ensure long-term synergies and shared interests. Lastly, harmonizing the EU's strategic objectives with those of its Member States requires improved communication and coordination, particularly in multilateral settings.

This policy brief highlights the inadequacies of the EU's accession policy in the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. It argues that the disconnection between the enlargement policy and geopolitical realities leaves Eastern European states in a precarious situation. The brief suggests essential recommendations, including reducing the Council's role, adopting qualified majority voting, setting target admission dates, and emphasizing a merit-based accession process, without necessitating Treaty changes.