Defining strategic autonomy. A comparative analysis of Italy, France, Germany, and the Baltic Region

The concept of European strategic autonomy is central both to the internal securi-ty of the European Union and to its assertion on the international stage. Despite numerous attempts to develop it, the lack of a common definition among Member States has generated a lively debate within the European foreign policy communi-ty. As a preliminary step, this study introduces the critical issues that still prevent reaching a shared definition of ESA and explains the genesis and evolution of the concept. Finally, it compares the main interpretations of the concept, including those put forward by France, Italy, Germany, and the Baltic States, highlighting their similarities and differences.