Simone Tholens

<p>Simone Tholens is a post-doctoral research assistant at the <a href="http://borderlands-project.eu/Home.aspx">BORDERLANDS</a> project within the Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies of the

Partnership or power projection? The EU and its 'neighbourhood'

The EU is advancing its image as a 'benevolent neighbour' and 'democracy promoter.' Is this a reflection of reality, or good public relations?

By Simone Tholens and Raffaella A.Del Sarto

/ 18 Nov 2014

Conflict at the EU's southern borders: the Sahel crisis

Gradually, EU systems of governance have extended into the southern Mediterranean, linking dynamics in the Sahel with European interests through its borderlands. This could be a test of the EU's foreign policy ambitions. But is the Union ready and capable to act, and if so, what is at stake?

By Simone Tholens and Raffaella Del Sarto

/ 1 Feb 2013

Extending European borders? Paradoxes in Balkan politics between EU accession and statebuilding

The western Balkans are caught between internal dynamics acting to couple borders with national myth-making, and post-modern Europeanizing forces hoping to nurture cosmopolitan polities.

By Simone Tholens

/ 19 Jul 2012