This study examines the possible role of European security institutions in future crises, in relation to the ongoing changes in Europe. The study outlines the security environment, explaining typical European interests and the need to defend these through a European oriented security structure. Based on the main concern, i.e., the instable situation in Central and Eastern Europe, the study identifies crisis management as a critical capability. Therefore, the study discusses some basic rules for effective crisis management. Today, four security institutions are in existence in Europe: NATO, the EC, the WEU, and CSCE. Analysis of their histories and their current plans reveals that neither of those institutions in its present form meets the requirements for the future. in its conclusion the study presents a possible security structure, build around the EC with NATO providing the military component. As the EC evolves into a true European Union though, the WEU will gradually replace NATO. CSCE will not only provide a platform for fundamental discussions on security, but it will also link the USA and Europe.

ADA 256875 Approved for public release; Distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)