Qatar and Europe’s Neglect of the Gulf Region

Notes internacionals CIDOB, núm. 46

There has been relative neglect of the energy rich Gulf region by Europe. More traditional files in the Middle East like the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership or the Arab- Israeli conflict attracted more attention. As single nation states Europeans will have increasing problems to stand their ground against an established US and a rising Asia in the region.

Within less than two decades Qatar has become a linchpin of global natural gas markets, and has accumulated a considerable amount of soft power by projects in media, education, and culture. The satellite channel Al Jazeera, Qatar Foundation, or the hosting of the football world championship in 2022 are cases in point.

The small state Qatar appears to punch above its weight with a flurry of diplomatic initiatives with often contradictory partners, ranging from Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Iran to democratization movements and Islamists. Apart from personal ambitions, financial prowess, a power vacuum in the region, and the silent protection of the US, the most likely explanation is the need of a small state to maintain good relations in an unstable region.

As a regional mediator Qatar can play a helpful role for Europe. Engagement with Qatar cannot replace, however, engagement with larger states in the region like Saudi Arabia or the UAE that sometimes frown upon Qatari hyperactivity.

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