As global dynamics continue to shift, ASSEDEL had the opportunity to speak with Portuguese Member of the European Parliament Sebastião Bugalho about his current priorities in the European Parliament and his views on the European Union’s role in foreign policy and security.
Parliamentary Priorities in a Changing Geopolitical Landscape
MEP Bugalho began by highlighting a recent urgency debate held in the European Parliament concerning the situation in Ukraine. He noted that the European Union responded effectively to the international proposal under discussion, despite Russia’s opposition.
He added that the ability of the United States to influence other countries is no longer as strong as it once was. According to him, this shift creates both an opportunity and a responsibility for the European Union.
Referring to a well-known Portuguese expression, he remarked that when “God closes a door, He may open a window“. With this phrase, he emphasized that Europe must be prepared to take on a larger role and strengthen its capacity to respond to emerging global challenges.
Institutional Limitations and the Role of the European Parliament
Despite his active involvement in foreign affairs, MEP Bugalho acknowledged that the European Parliament plays a comparatively limited role in shaping the EU’s external policy. Member States, he explained, want to see the treaties respected and are cautious not to exceed their designated competences.
He also noted that the year 2026 is likely to be both interesting and potentially unsettling, given the broader geopolitical changes unfolding in the international arena.
EU and NATO: Complementary Pillars of Security
An important point of the discussion concerned the relationship between the European Union and NATO. MEP Bugalho underlined that the future of both institutions depends on closer cooperation.
For Europe to safeguard its sovereignty and preserve its capacity to face upcoming global challenges, he argued that the Union must adopt a more Atlantic outlook, even when the United States is not as engaged as in the past.
Looking Ahead
The conversation with MEP Sebastião Bugalho highlights a decisive moment for the European Union, as it confronts significant challenges while also encountering new opportunities.
As global power balances shift, Europe is called to assume a more active and resilient role in matters of security, cooperation, and strategic direction.
ASSEDEL, based in Strasbourg and committed to the promotion of human rights and European values, continues to follow and shed light on developments that shape the future of European democracy and international relations.