Publication

This policy brief discusses the contentious issue of the gas relationship between Russia and EU member states. The issue is seen as a major reason for the EU's failure to develop a common policy approach towards Moscow. The author argues that the problem is divisiveness, not dependence, and explains that Russian gas proves problematic because Europe's gas market is dysfunctional and segmented. To address the specific concerns of central and eastern European member states, this policy brief recommends that the EU build on the 2004 directive on security of supply in natural gas, and help these member states devise and implement national action plans for gas security.