Fact Check: Crosetto claims EU and UN now count for nothing on the global stage.

Fact Check: "Crosetto claims EU and UN now count for nothing on the global stage."

What We Know

In a recent speech, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto emphasized that the geopolitical landscape is shifting towards a focus on great powers rather than great democracies. He stated, “the next few years will be those of the great powers and no longer of the great democracies” (Agenzia Nova). This assertion reflects a broader sentiment that the influence of traditional international organizations like the European Union (EU) and the United Nations (UN) is waning in the face of rising global tensions and power dynamics.

Crosetto's comments came during a ceremony marking the 102nd anniversary of the Italian Air Force, where he discussed the need for Italy to adapt its defense strategies to a world that is increasingly characterized by hybrid and asymmetric threats (Agenzia Nova). He also mentioned that the roles of the EU and UN may need to be reevaluated in light of current global conflicts, particularly in regions like Ukraine and Gaza (Agenzia Nova).

Analysis

Crosetto's claim that the EU and UN are losing their significance on the global stage can be seen as a reflection of current geopolitical realities. The ongoing war in Ukraine and rising tensions in the Middle East have highlighted the limitations of these organizations in effectively addressing complex international crises. For instance, the EU has been criticized for its slow response to the war in Ukraine, while the UN has faced challenges in mediating conflicts effectively (Decode39).

However, it is essential to consider the context of Crosetto's statements. His remarks may be influenced by Italy's strategic interests and the current political climate, which emphasizes military and economic power over diplomatic efforts. While there is evidence that the EU and UN face challenges, they still play crucial roles in international diplomacy, humanitarian efforts, and global governance (EEAS).

The reliability of the sources used to support Crosetto's claims varies. The speech reported by Agenzia Nova is a direct account of his statements, providing a primary source for his views. In contrast, the broader analysis of the EU and UN's roles comes from secondary sources that may carry their own biases. Therefore, while Crosetto's assertion reflects a growing sentiment among some political leaders, it does not encompass the full scope of the EU and UN's ongoing contributions to global stability.

Conclusion

The claim that the EU and UN now count for nothing on the global stage is Partially True. While there is a discernible trend towards the dominance of great powers and a recognition of the limitations of these organizations in current conflicts, the EU and UN continue to play vital roles in international relations. Crosetto's perspective highlights a significant shift in geopolitical dynamics, but it does not fully account for the ongoing relevance and contributions of these institutions.

Fact Check: Crosetto claims EU and UN now count for nothing on the global stage.