The potential election of Kamala Harris as the first female president of the United States would have significant global ramifications. In particular, Europe and the trans-Atlantic alliance would likely experience shifts in their relationships with the U.S., given Harris’s political background and the geopolitical landscape she would inherit. As the Democratic candidate, she would maintain the legacy of her predecessor, Joe Biden, while also carving her unique leadership style.
This article explores how a Harris victory could impact Europe and the broader trans-Atlantic relationship, taking into account her positions on key global issues, her background in foreign policy, and the changing dynamics of international politics.
Continuity and Stability in Foreign Policy
One of the immediate implications of a Harris victory would be continuity in U.S. foreign policy, particularly toward Europe. As Vice President under Joe Biden, Harris has been involved in several critical discussions and agreements concerning NATO, the European Union, and trans-Atlantic security. Biden’s foreign policy, built on re-engagement with multilateral institutions and alliances that were neglected during the Trump administration, is something Harris would likely continue.
This continuity would reassure European leaders who have been wary of unpredictable shifts in U.S. foreign policy. The Harris administration is expected to maintain U.S. commitments to NATO, support democratic values, and strengthen international cooperation on critical issues such as climate change and defense.
Strengthening NATO and Collective Security
NATO has been a cornerstone of the trans-Atlantic alliance for over 70 years. Under a Harris presidency, the U.S. would likely continue to emphasize the importance of NATO, especially in the face of growing security concerns from Russia and China. European leaders, particularly those in Eastern Europe, will look to Harris for reassurance that the U.S. remains committed to NATO’s collective security framework.
Harris has been a vocal supporter of NATO during her time as vice president, and she recognizes the importance of the alliance in countering Russian aggression. This is particularly important given the ongoing war in Ukraine, where European nations have aligned closely with the U.S. in terms of providing military aid and diplomatic support. A Harris administration would likely continue these efforts, working closely with European allies to bolster NATO’s defenses and reinforce deterrence against further Russian advances.
The Russia-Ukraine Conflict
One of the most pressing issues facing Europe today is the Russia-Ukraine war. A Harris victory could lead to a stronger and more coordinated U.S.-EU response to the conflict. As vice president, Harris has been involved in shaping U.S. sanctions against Russia and providing military aid to Ukraine. Her administration would likely continue these policies, with an emphasis on increasing support for Ukraine and ensuring European unity against Russian aggression.
In terms of sanctions, Harris’s presidency would likely push for continued economic pressure on Moscow. However, she might also encourage Europe to enhance its energy independence, reducing its reliance on Russian energy exports. This move would be pivotal in weakening Russia’s influence over Europe while strengthening the continent’s energy security.
Trans-Atlantic Economic Relations
Economic cooperation between the U.S. and Europe has always been an essential component of their relationship. A Harris administration would likely continue efforts to boost trade and investment between the two regions. One of the key areas of focus would be on ensuring that U.S.-EU economic relations remain strong, particularly in the face of growing competition from China.
A Harris presidency could see renewed efforts to negotiate trans-Atlantic trade deals, building on Biden’s groundwork in improving economic ties with Europe. Additionally, Harris would likely support efforts to address trade disputes and align regulations on emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and green technologies, to ensure that both the U.S. and Europe remain competitive in the global market.
Climate Change and Green Energy Cooperation
Climate change is a global challenge that demands strong international cooperation, and Harris has consistently championed this issue. As president, she would prioritize strengthening U.S. leadership on climate change, particularly through partnerships with Europe. The European Union has long been a leader in environmental policy, and Harris’s administration would likely work closely with European leaders to meet the ambitious goals set forth in the Paris Agreement.
This cooperation would not only involve cutting emissions but also investing in green technologies. Harris could push for greater collaboration between the U.S. and Europe in areas such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, and sustainable infrastructure. These joint efforts would enhance the global fight against climate change while creating new economic opportunities for both regions.
Strengthening Trans-Atlantic Democratic Values
One of the defining features of the Biden administration’s foreign policy has been the emphasis on promoting democratic values globally. This is a philosophy that Harris shares deeply, and her presidency would likely see a continuation of U.S. efforts to support democratic governance and human rights worldwide.
In Europe, this could translate into stronger collaboration with the European Union to counter rising authoritarianism and democratic backsliding in certain member states. Harris’s leadership would likely focus on defending press freedom, supporting civil society organizations, and ensuring free and fair elections across Europe.
Relations with Key European Leaders
The relationship between the U.S. president and European leaders is pivotal to the trans-Atlantic alliance. Kamala Harris’s leadership style, known for its pragmatism and emphasis on dialogue, would be well-received by European leaders such as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron. Both leaders have expressed their desire for closer cooperation with the U.S. on various fronts, including defense, trade, and climate policy.
Harris would likely cultivate strong personal relationships with European heads of state, building on Biden’s efforts to restore trust and cooperation after the strained ties during the Trump era. Her administration would work closely with Europe to address global challenges, from the rise of China to the threats posed by cyber-attacks and disinformation campaigns.
Managing the China Challenge Together
One of the most critical aspects of U.S.-Europe relations in the coming years will be how both sides manage the rise of China. The Biden administration has already begun coordinating with European allies on issues such as trade, technology, and human rights concerning China, and Harris would continue this trajectory.
A Harris presidency would likely push for a unified trans-Atlantic approach to China, emphasizing the need to address intellectual property theft, unfair trade practices, and human rights violations, particularly in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. Europe, under Harris’s leadership, would be encouraged to strengthen its trade and security policies concerning China while ensuring that the relationship remains balanced and constructive.
Migration and Refugee Policies
Migration is another issue where Harris’s presidency could have significant implications for Europe. Harris has been a vocal advocate for addressing the root causes of migration, particularly in Central America, during her time as vice president. Her administration would likely adopt a similar approach in addressing migration challenges in Europe, working with European governments to develop sustainable solutions for refugee resettlement and integration.
This collaboration could include joint initiatives to provide aid to countries facing humanitarian crises and creating safe and legal pathways for asylum seekers. By addressing migration through a multilateral approach, Harris’s presidency could help alleviate the pressures facing Europe from increased refugee flows.
A Renewed Trans-Atlantic Partnership
A Kamala Harris victory in the U.S. election would likely result in a strengthened and more stable trans-Atlantic relationship. Building on Biden’s policies of re-engagement, Harris would prioritize NATO’s collective security, democratic values, economic cooperation, and climate change. Her pragmatic and dialogue-driven leadership would ensure that Europe and the U.S. continue to work together on global challenges, from managing the rise of China to addressing the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
While the geopolitical landscape remains uncertain, a Harris presidency would offer Europe a steady and reliable partner in navigating the complexities of the modern world. The trans-Atlantic alliance, rooted in shared values and interests, would likely emerge stronger under her leadership, ready to face the challenges of the 21st century.
