Security starts with a country’s borders – Labour can learn from Italy.
This week, Keir Starmer took a significant step toward closer cooperation with the European Union. But rather than being celebrated by centrists in the UK, the move was met with criticism. Those who believe the UK’s future lies in deeper EU ties should have cheered. Instead, they were concerned about Starmer’s growing association with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who belongs to a very different political tradition than the Labour Party.
It’s one of the hard truths of foreign policy: you don’t get to choose the political affiliations of the leaders you work with. Their domestic politics are out of your control. However, those who have observed Meloni in action within the EU have found that she is a reliable European. At the heart of international cooperation is shared interest, and right now, no interest unites European countries more than security.
This interest in security is essential for any meaningful deepening of UK-EU relations, and there are two key reasons for this. First, as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz outlined in a meeting in Rome shortly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Europe has always had two pillars: economy and culture. But now, a third pillar—defense and security—must be built. This is the most pressing issue, and the UK, with its central role in NATO and military capabilities, must be at the forefront.
By focusing on security cooperation, the UK can reestablish itself as a trusted partner in Europe, following a period of instability marked by four distinct Conservative prime ministers. The UK’s military strength, security services, and role in NATO position it as an essential player in maintaining European stability and security.
For Labour, Starmer’s outreach to Meloni is a pragmatic move that aligns with this evolving geopolitical reality. While critics may worry about the political differences between Labour and Meloni’s government, the shared interests in security cannot be ignored. This is the space where cooperation is not only possible but necessary.
As Europe faces increasing threats, security has emerged as the glue that binds nations together. Starmer’s recognition of this and his willingness to work with leaders like Meloni show that the Labour Party is adjusting to the new demands of international diplomacy. If the UK is to regain its influence in Europe, it must focus on securing its place at the heart of this essential cooperation.