Could Kamala Harris bring stability to U.S.-EU relations in a shifting global landscape?
As the United States gears up for its next presidential term, a potential Kamala Harris victory could bring significant changes to the relationship between the U.S. and the European Union. Amid global challenges and shifting alliances, Harris’s approach could provide a sense of stability and continuity, particularly in trade, security, and environmental cooperation. However, her policies may also create areas of friction, notably in tech regulations and subsidies. Let’s examine how a Harris presidency might impact U.S.-EU relations.
Stability and continuity in transatlantic trade
Harris’s economic policies are expected to mirror much of the Biden administration’s focus on strengthening the U.S. economy while addressing global competition, particularly from China. Her approach could bring more stability to transatlantic trade, as she is likely to favor predictable, cooperative policies. This is in stark contrast to the often unpredictable trade tariffs and negotiations seen during the Trump administration, which strained the U.S.-EU relationship. Harris may work to rebuild trust with European partners and create consistent economic policies that mutually benefit both economies.
While Harris would likely maintain a strong stance on protecting U.S. economic interests, her administration may adopt a more collaborative tone with the EU, emphasizing aligned interests over confrontation. Nevertheless, tensions may still arise over issues such as industrial subsidies and specific trade regulations.
Security and shared defense responsibilities
Security remains another pillar in the U.S.-EU relationship. Harris’s commitment to NATO and traditional alliances suggests that her administration would continue supporting Europe’s defense framework. However, she is also likely to encourage European countries to take on more responsibility for their own security. This shift would resonate with the EU’s increasing focus on developing a more autonomous defense capacity, enabling the U.S. to focus on other global security issues without fully stepping back from Europe.
Harris’s policies could result in a balanced approach where the U.S. maintains its role within NATO but urges its allies to strengthen their own defenses. This dynamic would allow the EU to grow its influence in security matters while maintaining strong transatlantic ties.
Climate and technology as points of cooperation
Harris is expected to prioritize environmental and technological partnerships, areas where the EU and U.S. have a shared interest. Her administration would likely advocate for stronger cooperation in clean energy initiatives, climate change mitigation, and green technology development. Such policies align with the EU’s Green Deal and its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality, positioning Harris as a key ally in global environmental leadership.
Moreover, cooperation in technology and innovation could see growth, as Harris may look to align U.S. tech policies with European standards, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. However, regulatory differences could still create challenges, especially if the U.S. aims to maintain a more competitive edge in its tech sector compared to Europe’s highly regulated framework.
Potential challenges: Subsidies and regulatory disputes
While Harris may bring a stabilizing influence, certain areas could still lead to transatlantic disagreements. Industrial subsidies, for example, remain a contentious issue. Both the U.S. and EU have interests in supporting their own industries, which could create friction over fair competition.
Another potential point of contention lies in digital and technological regulations. The EU’s stringent regulations on data privacy, content moderation, and tech monopolies may clash with a more flexible U.S. approach. Kamala Harris may need to navigate these differences carefully to avoid stalling progress in other cooperative areas.
A new chapter in U.S.-EU relations?
If elected, Kamala Harris has the potential to reshape U.S.-EU relations, bringing a balanced mix of stability, cooperation, and resilience to the table. While differences may persist, particularly around regulatory and trade issues, Harris’s presidency could create a predictable environment that allows both sides to focus on shared goals. From trade to security and environmental action, her approach could set the tone for a strong, cooperative transatlantic partnership in the coming years.
