In Search of a New Strategy of the Franco-German Tandem: Period of Limited Capacity

The authors analyse the beginning of a period of limited capacity of France and Ger-many to act and the reasons for this. They present the main features of this period. The two countries are searching for a new, joint and more in-depth strategy for the future of the tandem. This strategy will include a reform agenda for the European Union and will be based on a possible convergence of socio-economic models. The first part of the article «Macron’s autonomous initiatives and the Meseberg compromise» provides examples where President France hindered the tandem’s search for a common strategy. Documents signed by the two governments in the areas of security, defence and competitiveness of the EU during Macron's state visit to Germany are also analysed. The authors conclude that the partners allow a differentiation between their tasks in NATO and the Common Defence and Security Policy. In the second section «The elections to the European Parliament and the dissolution of the National Assembly» the results are compared and their impact on the beginning of the period of limited capacity for action of France and Ger-many is demonstrated. In the third section «The elections to the National Assembly and their consequences» the authors draw attention to little-known facts and connections, including the help of some German parties in the formation of the democratic coalition in France. In the fourth section «Signs of the period of limited capacity for action» seven signs are described. The authors believe that these signs mean that France and Germany should be deeply interested in normalising relations with Russia. They also reflect on how partners intend to overcome asymmetry and objective differences.