In the second half of the twentieth century, Germany became the dominant political and economic power in Europe - and the arbiter of all important EU decisions. Yet Germany's leadership of the EU is geared principally to the defence of German national interests. Germany exercises power in order to protect the German economy and to enable it to play an influential role in the wider world. Beyond that there is no underlying vision or purpose. In this book, former British ambassador in Berlin Paul Lever provides a unique insight into modern Germany. He shows how the country's history has influenced its current economic and political structures and provides important perspectives on its likely future challenges and choices, especially in the context of the 2015 refugee crisis which saw over 1 million immigrants offered a home in Germany. As Britain prepares to leave the European Union, this book will be essential reading and suggests the future shape of a Germany dominated Europe.
About the AuthorSir Paul Lever was British ambassador to Germany from 1997 to 2003. During his earlier diplomatic career, he specialized in European political, economic, and security issues. His postings included service in NATO, in the European Commission, as chairman of the Joint Intelligence Committee, and as EU and economic director in the Foreign Office. From 2004 to 2010, he was chairman of the Royal United Services Institute.
Book InformationISBN 9781788314138
Author Paul LeverFormat Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint I.B. TaurisPublisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC