Benelux cooperation now and beyond 2010

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• Abstract
• Introduction
• SWOT Analysis
• Tuning the Benelux Truck
• Conclusion

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This thesis examines the current state of Benelux cooperation and explores the need for a new legal framework to ensure its future success beyond 2010. The study analyzes the historical development of Benelux collaboration, assesses the strengths and weaknesses of the current organization, and identifies opportunities and threats to its future.

• The historical evolution of Benelux cooperation from its origins to the establishment of the Benelux Economic Union (BEU)
• A SWOT analysis of the Benelux organization, highlighting its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
• The challenges facing the Benelux in the context of European integration and the expiration of the BEU-Treaty in 2010.
• The need for a new legal framework and strategies to revitalize Benelux cooperation and ensure its continued relevance.
• Recommendations for "tuning" the Benelux organization to ensure its future success as a laboratory for European policies and a vital player on the international stage.

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

• Abstract: This section provides a brief overview of the thesis, outlining its main objectives and key findings. It discusses the historical context of Benelux cooperation, its achievements, and the challenges it faces in the 21st century.
• Introduction: This chapter delves into the origins of Benelux cooperation, tracing its historical evolution from the 16th century to the present day. It examines the key factors that have shaped Benelux relations, including political, economic, and cultural influences.
• SWOT Analysis: This chapter analyzes the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing the Benelux organization. It assesses the organization's strengths, such as its historical role as a laboratory for European integration, its added value, and its well-established Secretariat-General. It also discusses the challenges of the organization, including the caducity of exclusive Benelux domains, the lack of Benelux visibility, and the lack of institutionalized political cooperation.
• Tuning the Benelux Truck: This chapter focuses on the need for a new legal framework for Benelux cooperation in light of the expiration of the BEU-Treaty in 2010. It examines the challenges of the modified setup of the Belgian state, the rapid pace of European integration, and the future role of the Benelux in the context of European policymaking. The chapter also explores the need for a new drive to revitalize Benelux cooperation and outlines five key steps for tuning the Benelux "truck" to ensure its continued success.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

The key terms and concepts explored in this thesis include Benelux cooperation, European integration, legal framework, SWOT analysis, historical development, economic union, political cooperation, BEU-Treaty, laboratory function, visibility, and international relations.