@APHClarkson It’s not just geopolitical (in the sense of demonstrating and exerting power). It’s also a profound, innate belief in rules and a rule-based order. It is genuinely existential.
@APHClarkson The EU was created to move from relationships being dictated by power - the Thucydidean, the powerful do what they will, style - to being dictated by rules, by power being curbed by law. The EU is a creature of, by and through law, and will defend that law-based order.
@APHClarkson The law-based order has changed Europe from the place people fled *from* to the place people flee *to*.
It’s one of the most astonishing transformations in human history. There has never been a peace this long along the Rhine. Ever.
It’s one of the most astonishing transformations in human history. There has never been a peace this long along the Rhine. Ever.
@APHClarkson And it is under attack from those who would go back to the previous, disastrous order. Not only will the EU not sanction “We’re big so we should be allowed ignore the rules but get all the perks” attempts, it simply cannot do so.
@APHClarkson Still less from a UK that entirely over-estimates the strength of its bargaining position and which has been acting in a way bordering on bad faith in regard to briefing against Ireland and backsliding on commitments made.
Law is, after all, rules which may attract sanctions.
Law is, after all, rules which may attract sanctions.
