The EU Can't Expect Miracles: An Interview with Hubert Védrine

Hubert Védrine was a diplomatic adviser and chief of staff to French President François Mitterand, and went on to serve as France's foreign minister in the government of Prime Minister Lionel Jospin (1997-2002). He is the author of numerous books and articles on foreign policy and globalization, including "History Strikes Back: How Nations, States and Conflicts are Shaping the 21st Century." In a wide-ranging interview, the edited text of which follows, he offered his analysis of the issues and challenges facing the European Union, both at home and abroad, as it enters the post-Lisbon era.

Let's start with the post-Lisbon period. It might be premature to make a definitive judgment, but for you, does this represent a beginning, or is it a failure, given the initial, perhaps disappointing results of the nominations? ...