Working Papers CES Year 2025

EU Memory Politics: Shifting towards securitisation?

Andrea Apollonio

 

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Abstract

This article offers an overview of the evolution of EU memory politics, arguing that recent developments signal a potential shift in the main function of collective memory: from a political resource to promote reconciliation and legitimise integration through shared narratives, to its increasing use as a strategic tool in EU foreign relations and international disputes. To support this interpretative endeavour, the article critically discusses the relevant scholarly literature, i.e. empirical studies on the EU institutions’ memory narratives and policies, and primary sources, i.e. institutional documents (parliamentary resolutions, treaties, declarations and high-level speeches).

 

Keywords: EU Memory Politics; Collective Memory; Political Narratives.

 

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