Europe, Palestine and the meaning of recognition

The decision by France, the UK and other European states to recognise Palestine is a turning point for European diplomacy, writes Vera Spyrakou. But for the move to have any lasting impact, Europe must back up its symbolism with substance.

In a new article for the LSE European Politics and Policy (EUROPP) Blog, our Visiting Fellow Dr Vera Spyrakou discusses the recognition of Palestine by France, the UK and others and how it presents Europe with the opportunity to combine recognition, aid and diplomacy to make itself the custodian of the two-state solution.

Out of 193 United Nations member states, 156 have already extended recognition and the number is rising steadily. For Europe, this decision carries implications that reach well beyond the conflict itself. It touches on Europe’s global role, its internal cohesion and its credibility as a normative power.