Middle East and North Africa Programme

Workshop Summary

New Dynamics in GCC-UK

Relations and the Prospects
and Challenges for the GCC
Union
1213 June 2014

Chatham House in partnership with the Gulf Research Center

The views expressed in this document are the sole responsibility of the speaker(s) and participants do not necessarily reflect the view of Chatham
House, its staff, associates or Council. Chatham House is independent and owes no allegiance to any government or to any political body. It does not
take institutional positions on policy issues. This document is issued on the understanding that if any extract is used, the author(s)/ speaker(s) and
Chatham House should be credited, preferably with the date of the publication or details of the event. Where this document refers to or reports
statements made by speakers at an event every effort has been made to provide a fair representation of their views and opinions. The published text of
speeches and presentations may differ from delivery.

10 St Jamess Square, London SW1Y 4LE T +44 (0)20 7957 5700 F +44 (0)20 7957 5710
www.chathamhouse.org
Patron: Her Majesty The Queen Chairman: Stuart Popham QC Director: Dr Robin Niblett Charity Registration Number: 208223

2 New Dynamics in GCC-UK Relations and the Prospects and Challenges for the GCC Union

Introduction
This paper is a summary of proceedings at a closed-door workshop hosted by Chatham House in
partnership with the Gulf Research Center that took place on 1213 June 2014. The workshop brought
together a number of analysts, government representatives, academics and journalists to discuss the
relationship between Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and the United Kingdom, its future
development amid changing regional dynamics and the prospects for a Gulf union.
Some of the main findings include the following:
In an era characterized by ever-changing regional dynamics, shifting alliances and great instability in
the Middle East, a concerted effort is needed to maintain and fortify long-standing UK-GCC ties.
The United Kingdom and the Gulf states share a range of primary interests and concerns, for instance
regional security and international terrorism; recognising shared goals and areas of mutual concern is
essential in order to jointly address key issues.
While they share similar perspectives on various matters, both the United Kingdom and the Gulf
countries are undergoing a period of change concerning their respective international roles, domestic
and foreign policies; these changes, which are subject to policy divergences between the United
Kingdom and GCC states, must be navigated carefully through increased dialogue between the two
partners.
Both as individual countries and as a regional bloc, there are profound developments taking place
within the GCC in terms of internal structure and governance culture. This presents multiple
opportunities for increased engagement with the United Kingdom, which can offer experience and
expertise in a number of relevant areas.
Rather than being viewed as a threat, the media can be utilised as a tool to enhance constructive
dialogue and UK-GCC engagement, as well as to enrich understanding between the respective
populations. For this to be borne out, however, greater media access to the Gulf is vital.
On the topic of Gulf union, there are considerable obstacles as well as prospective benefits with
regards to deeper coordination and integration at a time of regional flux; accordingly, any future
policies must be carefully considered and vigorously debated.
Numerous lessons can be drawn from Europes experience with union as a template for the GCC, albeit
with major differences in structure, size and scope. Regardless of these differences, some of the values
enshrined in the EU model including accountability, transparency and public participation would
undoubtedly reinforce GCC governance and decision-making processes.
The meeting was held under the Chatham House Rule and the views expressed are those of the
participants. This summary is intended to serve as an aide-mmoire to those who took part and to provide
a general summary of discussions for those who did not.

The Chatham House Rule

When a meeting, or part thereof, is held under the Chatham House Rule, participants are free to use the
information received, but neither the identity nor the affiliation of the speaker(s), nor that of any other
participant, may be revealed.

3 New Dynamics in GCC-UK Relations and the Prospects and Challenges for the GCC Union

Session 1: A shifting regional environment GCC-UK relations in context

The opening session of the workshop addressed the significant challenges facing both the United
Kingdom and the Gulf Cooperation Council in the current international climate, as well as common
interests between the two partners. With a stronger Russia, a declining US role in the region and a quiet
European Union, participants agreed that a new kind of partnership must be developed between the
United Kingdom and the GCC, taking into account respective interests, goals and concerns. Renewed
understanding and collaboration on key issues can only serve to enhance their long-standing relationship.
Rising Gulf: implications for the international community
The ascendancy of the Gulf states as regional powers presents new trials for policy-making, especially
after the Arab Spring, with growing evidence of Gulf officials acting unilaterally or as a loose regional bloc
to secure vital interests. While the emergence of states in the Gulf as visible global actors predates the
phenomenon that began in December 2010, this role has acquired new dimensions post-Arab Spring. One
participant highlighted the questions this raises for the international community regarding how to align
the interests of Gulf states with political inclusiveness. For instance, UK policy-makers are faced with the
difficulty of balancing commercial interests with issues of human rights. The question therefore becomes
one of how to create an optimal partnership with GCC states as they strive to protect their respective
national and regional interests.
Participants discussed the nature of the increasing Gulf footprint in the international sphere. Funding and
development agencies in the Gulf have long provided aid; the major post-2011 development is that Gulf
support has become overtly connected to influencing change in transition states, utilising soft power. Gulf
assistance to Egypt can be used as an example to show practical and policy implications. With Gulf states
supporting different sides in Egypt and offering amounts much larger than international agencies, the
impact of their support is undeniable. Syria provides another example, this one concerning the dangerous
effects of a divided international community employing unilateral policies. Participants agreed that UK
policy-makers must acknowledge that shifting global politics means power being dispersed among more
active participants. Recognizing shared interests, and in turn keeping everyone at the table, is a key
imperative. For states in transition in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), this opens up new
possibilities with regards to political and economic options for policy-makers in those countries. To be
sure, a nuanced understanding of new global dynamics is essential in order for UK officials to provide
practical cooperation and consistency in their approach to Gulf states.
Regional security and global perspectives
Participants shared the opinion that a peaceful Middle East is an issue of common concern for global
actors. Whether in terms of energy, food or human security, both the GCC and the United Kingdom have a
mutual interest in preserving stability in the region. One participant cited the success of joint cooperation
between the United Kingdom and GCC in fighting terrorism, a crucial element of collaboration taking into
account the presence of civil war and armed conflict in the MENA region. Others expressed their hope to
see strategic cooperation between the two extending to include further areas of mutual concern, for
instance the Iranian nuclear file. It was mentioned that there exists no unified GCC policy towards the
United Kingdom, and vice versa, with bilateral relations between individual Gulf states and the United
Kingdom prevailing. This fact is not necessarily negative, however, in that it drives forward strategic
relationships and indeed has the potential to strengthen UK engagement with the GCC as a regional bloc.

4 New Dynamics in GCC-UK Relations and the Prospects and Challenges for the GCC Union

With regards to the regional environment, one participant asserted that the two main issues of concern
for the GCC are the Arab Spring and the Iranian nuclear programme, as well as Irans foreign policy. The
former has caused fissures within the GCC, leading to instability in a region with a historical structure
that supports values of political conservatism and favours gradual rather than rapid change. It has also
served to generate a security risk, allowing for external actors to manipulate conditions for their own
interests, while creating space for the recruitment, financing and arming of terrorist organizations.
Various participants affirmed that the Gulf countries have nevertheless shown great adaptability to the
situation, for example providing crucial assistance to the transition process in countries such as Yemen.
There was much debate among participants surrounding the issue of Iran. Several expressed concern
regarding the countrys perceived agenda for hegemony in the region, particularly against the backdrop of
an extant security vacuum. It was suggested that international powers are concerned mainly with the
Iranian nuclear programme at the expense of the balance of power in the region, an issue of vital
importance for GCC states. Others agreed that there is a widespread disconnect in perception between the
Iranian nuclear issue and the question of Irans contribution to Gulf security. Navigating differing
priorities, therefore, was cited as an important issue to address within the framework of UK-GCC
relations. One participant stressed the primacy of regional acceptance of Irans reintegration into the
international system, with any resolution between Iran and the P5+1 powers needing to take into account
GCC concerns if it is to create a sustainable order. Participants disagreed on whether the international
community should strive for greater GCC involvement in negotiations with Iran, or conversely whether
the regional bloc should itself create unified initiatives to foster its role in the process. One participant
highlighted the varying degrees and nature of individual Gulf states engagement with Iran and the
limitations this places on a potential GCC role. All were of the view, however, that the GCC is a chief
player in the quest for regional stability.

Session 2: GCC-UK ties impact of political change

Discussion in the second session of the workshop centred on the profound changes witnessed in the
international arena since the end of the Cold War, and particularly since 2011. It was noted that the GCCUK relationship, founded on deep historic roots, must also be based on the shifting strategic needs of the
two partners. At a time of extensive regional and international flux, relations between the two must be
carefully navigated in the course of strategic developments.
Internal trajectories within the GCC
Amid the deep changes and transitions occurring across the region, the GCC countries have strived to
maintain a balance of stability and measured development. One participant posited that regional
developments since the US invasion of Iraq have demonstrated that efforts to bring about a democratic
model in the Middle East have been unsuccessful. Moreover, current conditions within the Arab Spring
countries confirm that democratic principles are not so easily translated and applied in countries where
the social structure is not prepared to accept them. It was generally agreed that building democracy
should entail economic and political development at a pace suited to a states particular structure and
culture. The United Kingdoms role in establishing several of the post-independence systems in the Gulf
was highlighted, including its contribution to curricula as well as media norms. Issues such as
transparency, the rule of law and freedom of speech have witnessed steady progress in the Gulf based on
UK expertise. There is a push within the Gulf not for Western-style democracy but rather for good
governance, especially from the younger generations. Such progress should continue at a steady pace as
GCC states develop policies intended to balance and adjust to changing circumstances in the region,
avoiding conditions of turbulence as seen elsewhere.

5 New Dynamics in GCC-UK Relations and the Prospects and Challenges for the GCC Union

Various participants stressed specific issues within the GCC that must be addressed internally, and the
protection of human rights ranked high among these. Maintaining long-term political stability was also
highlighted, which entails ministerial transparency, fighting corruption and unemployment, and the
redistribution of wealth. Instituting independent structures of government, with different branches
addressing the abovementioned issues, will undoubtedly reinforce GCC countries long-term
sustainability. There was consensus among participants that the United Kingdom could play a
constructive role in helping to secure these goals and in turn maintain regional stability. The country has
a 715-year long experience with democratization and has undergone its own trials with it along the way; a
key and indispensible component of foreign policy would be UK assistance in developing institutions
within GCC states to ensure their respective sustainability and adaptability to local needs and aspirations.
External alliances amid regional changes
Participants considered the effects of recent developments in the Middle East on UK-GCC relations,
questioning how the United Kingdom defines its alliances with the Gulf countries. One participant
suggested that the relationship between the two parties is under strain. That being said, it was noted that
all alliances experience ebb and flow as a result of global and regional developments. Particularly in the
Middle East, many strong relationships experience periods of tension and varying priorities, and GCC-UK
relations must be seen in light of this. Another participant cited the phenomenon of GCC countries tilting
East in the context of their strategic relations, as there is less interference from Eastern countries in GCC
states internal affairs. While this was noted as a potential threat to a strong and comprehensive UK-GCC
partnership, it was generally agreed that the long-standing ties between the two parties are a solid source
of support. While the United Kingdom may not be able to compromise on the importance of good
governance as a core value, there is ample room for both the GCC and the United Kingdom to work
together to find common ground while recognising each others strategic interests.
There was repeated emphasis during discussions on the need for GCC-UK relations to be reciprocal in
nature, on the basis of national interest. Some participants expressed discontent with the United
Kingdoms hosting of extremist elements that are trying to create instability and spur tensions in the
Middle East. The United Kingdom is perceived to be allowing such elements to operate on its grounds
while granting them political asylum. Some viewed this as an impediment to otherwise strong UK-Gulf
bilateral ties based on trust and deep historical ties. Others disagreed with the premise that the United
Kingdom has been overly embracing political Islam; the country is itself at times taken aback by events
unfolding in the Middle East and how they relate to the United Kingdom. One participant asserted that
not all Islamist movements can be painted with one brush; there are important dynamics to be taken into
account. This is especially true when considering the values and principles that guide the actions of the
United Kingdom, and the West in general, when it comes to asylum-seeking and other issues of human
rights. Overlooking its commitments to such values would essentially result in a loss of credibility for the
United Kingdom within its own population.

Session 3: GCC-UK defence and security ties identifying priority areas

This session covered the area of security and defence considerations of both the United Kingdom and the
GCC. The security priorities of the two partners are changing amid the fluctuating regional atmosphere, at
times causing friction within the relationship. Nevertheless, participants maintained that it is important
to preserve and indeed strengthen UK-GCC defence and security ties, possibly expanding them to include
other areas.

6 New Dynamics in GCC-UK Relations and the Prospects and Challenges for the GCC Union

Present and future security cooperation

The nature of defence ties was discussed, with participants agreeing that the United Kingdom maintains
stronger bilateral defence relations with individual GCC countries than with the organization as a whole.
This is owing to historical reasons as well as to the level of integration within the GCC itself, which is at a
relatively early stage of development. Foreign policy is still decided unilaterally in each capital. This is not
to say that the future might not bring further harmonization of defence and foreign policies in the region
and concomitantly more robust security relations between the GCC and the United Kingdom as distinct
partners. There have been far-reaching efforts in the last few years to integrate defence policy in the GCC,
particularly air defence. However, this does not augur an end to the United Kingdoms direct security
arrangements with individual Gulf countries. One participant cited the EUs relations with certain North
African countries as a useful example. Another expressed concern that there is insufficient
encouragement for multilateral structures of cooperation in the Gulf organizational links between the
GCC and NATO, for instance. Others attributed this to the aforementioned separate and distinct
coordination of security policies within individual GCC states and the lack of a collective attitude towards
defence.
Discussion turned to the issue of the United Kingdom as well as Gulf states restructuring their security
strategies and priorities against the background of a changing global setting. In terms of the United
Kingdom, there is no doubt that the Gulf is one of the United Kingdoms top security priorities after the
EU theatre. Although the 200708 economic crisis meant that resources allocated for military and
defence purposes have somewhat decreased, the Gulf is a huge area of interest for the United Kingdom.
One participant mentioned that there has been debate within the UK Ministry of Defence about whether a
physical military presence is needed in the Gulf, the United Kingdom being one of the two major powers
in Europe with expeditionary capacity along with France. It was also noted that there are hundreds of
officials in the GCC who already have a firm understanding of the strategic thinking that goes on in the
United Kingdom, which is an asset that must be built on.
With regards to the Gulf, various states are restructuring their military and defence policies in line with
the changing nature of external and internal threats. These include cyber security, piracy and threats from
non-state actors. Another element of the restructuring process, for instance in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, is
the emphasis on the development of an indigenous industrial capacity in terms of defence and security.
Furthermore, economic diversification strategies are being implemented across the GCC. Countries are
investing in agriculture, IT and numerous other industries. Several participants highlighted the
cultivation of home-grown industries as an area of potential collaboration with the United Kingdom, as
material, training and other forms of assistance are required. At the same time, GCC investments are
becoming global, a fact which has a number of implications. In terms of agricultural investment, for
instance, there is instability in some of the regions that Gulf countries invest in to maintain food security.
It is therefore imperative for the GCC to ensure that these investments and supply lines are protected,
another avenue of potential cooperation as it involves global security.
Challenges to strategic collaboration
There was general consensus on the existing possibilities of extending and expanding UK-GCC defence
and security beyond traditional themes, as the two work as partners to defend common interests. One
participant suggested the establishment of a forum to discuss issues of shared interests and approaches to
dealing with common threats. Some emphasized, however, that while intentions are present, translating
this into success might prove difficult. One participant referred to perceived UK selectivity towards

7 New Dynamics in GCC-UK Relations and the Prospects and Challenges for the GCC Union

human rights issues within GCC circles, with some under the impression that the former uses arguments
of protecting human rights in the Gulf for political reasons only.
Another point of discussion was the issue of political will in the United Kingdom. While there is no doubt
about the countrys military capacity or the quality of its armed forces, some participants questioned its
willingness to commit to global and regional security concerns. The governments reluctance to intervene
in the conflict in Syria was said to illustrate such views. Some clarified this occurrence by explaining that
while the UK governments policy was indeed to intervene in the country, this intention faltered in the
face of parliamentary opposition. Policy decisions towards Iraq and Syria have undeniably left a lack of
faith in the strategic thinking of the United Kingdom. Participants agreed nonetheless that more
comprehensive dialogue is central to buttressing cooperation between the United Kingdom and GCC, as
the ambiguity surrounding capacity and will has resulted in significant misunderstandings regarding
defence, security and political dynamics. Strategic discussion can only serve to enhance the relationship
and rebuild trust between the two parties.

Session 4: Situating GCC-UK ties within the modern media environment

Participants discussed concerns surrounding the role of the media as it pertains to the GCC-UK
relationship, including the effects of negative portrayals of the Gulf in UK media as well as potential
opportunities presented by culture and the press. There was repeated emphasis on the media
environment in GCC countries, and how this can be transformed to provide a more nuanced and accurate
understanding of life and values in those states from the outside. In general, participants agreed that
while there are indeed negative aspects regarding the role of the media, there is also a great deal to be
built upon and utilized.
Modern media: a powerful role
The media play an indisputably significant role in shaping public perceptions and views of a region and its
people, as well as in shaping foreign policy. Participants considered this fact in relation to UK media
coverage of Gulf states. Media are the primary means by which respective populations are educated about
each others countries and the multilateral relations between them. How the GCC and UK publics view
each other is key, especially during times of crisis. In particular, an understanding of the United
Kingdoms contemporary and historical connections to the GCC could make a considerable difference.
There was a predominant sense among some participants that the UK media take an overall critical and
biased stance towards the GCC. It was acknowledged that while most of what can be referred to as GCCcritical media coverage revolves around human rights issues, the impact on defence and economic
cooperation has been negligible. Nevertheless, such reporting does entail reputational damage which can
be corrosive and has the potential to strain certain economic relations and arrangements. Social media
presents a new arena of challenge as governments are striving to manage and improve their reputations
and outward-facing image.
Several participants affirmed that the suspicion regarding Western media coverage of the Gulf is
something of a conspiracy theory; critical pieces on the region do not constitute personal attacks on
respective governments, but rather the raising of serious issues which is essentially the function of the
media. Others stressed the mistaken view that the British state controls and in turn uses its media to
apply pressure on the Gulf. Conversely, the British government is in fact often wary of the media. It is true
that there are ways in which the government can influence the media, and in the past there have been

8 New Dynamics in GCC-UK Relations and the Prospects and Challenges for the GCC Union

public propaganda campaigns such as that surrounding the Iraq war; since then, however, there has on
the whole been greater cynicism and scepticism in the media towards government sources.
Creating a more balanced view
Gulf citizens have mixed views about Western coverage of their countries. It is problematic for young
Saudis, for example, to read unremittingly negative and stereotypical pieces about their country, and
ordinary people in the GCC inevitably feel singled out. On the other hand, as mentioned above, the press
has a considerable effect on forming Western public opinion concerning the GCC, with misperceptions at
times prevailing. Participants explored the various options available to address this situation. There was
emphasis on the consequences of Gulf governments and ministries attitude towards critical media
stories: when the UK parliament conducted an inquiry into UK relations with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain,
for instance, it was the negative and defensive response from those countries which ultimately caused
more damage and generated more attention than the initial story.
One participant raised the vital issue of access: the timing of responses from Gulf governments following
major stories is crucial. It can prove difficult to receive a definitive response, and journalists are forced to
rely heavily on Western think-tanks based in the Gulf to obtain relevant information about an issue rather
than from government officials and politicians as a direct source. The matter of inside access is a
somewhat problematic one in other senses, with visas for journalists in some Gulf countries being
extremely challenging to acquire. Furthermore, surveillance of journalists while in-country similarly
hinders their ability to cover stories adequately and impartially. Transparency is key, and participants
agreed that GCC states must give greater access if their global image is to improve; journalists can be
viewed as potential allies rather than threats. States such as Saudi Arabia remain a mystery to the general
public in the United Kingdom, which harbours misgivings about the country as a result. Changing
stereotypes is no simple task, but providing access to the country would be the first step towards this goal
by offering a nuanced view from the inside. To be sure, this does not come without a risk; however it
would certainly make for stronger and more open relationships between the United Kingdom and GCC as
well as more informed publics.
Another suggestion for improving UK-GCC relations as well as public misperceptions about the Gulf
involved better communication between the UK and Gulf media. It was mentioned that there has been
significant progress in local Gulf media coverage, with issues such as corruption and mismanagement
within GCC countries regularly being tackled. The degree of transparency has been raised, representing
subtle and rational development. Social media in the Gulf is accelerating this important trend, with
outlets such as Facebook, Youtube and Twitter providing citizens with a wider reach than that of
traditional media; it is difficult to overstate the impact of this phenomenon. More comprehensive
communication with counterparts in the United Kingdom could serve to further enhance this trend within
GCC media houses through strategic exchange and capacity-building. One participant referred to the
potential benefits of other forms of exchange, for instance seminars and workshops promoting intercultural knowledge between the Gulf and the United Kingdom. Cultural exchange can lead to a more
comprehensive understanding of respective cultures; the Saudi-produced film Wajda, for example, gave
many in the United Kingdom a novel insight into life in Saudi Arabia. Nonetheless, participants noted the
limitations of cultural exchange in tackling deep misperceptions. Active steps must be taken by the United
Kingdom and GCC countries in redressing the current climate through strategic exchange and enhanced
institutional collaboration.

Session 5: Prospects and challenges

9 New Dynamics in GCC-UK Relations and the Prospects and Challenges for the GCC Union

The fifth session of the workshop centred on the idea of and prospects for a Gulf union. Participants
considered the purpose and role of the GCC as it exists today, as well as the organizations shortcomings
and the direction in which it should progress. The GCC has come a long way since its inception over 30
years ago; but in order to remain effective it must develop and react to current circumstances.
Foundations and future role
The GCC was founded in 1981 on the basis of security and common interests. Regional events were
developing in such a way that called for a body for coordination and deliberation between Gulf states. In
the context of contemporary events, the GCC has proved itself as a fundamental body within the region. It
acted as a credible deterrence and defence mechanism during the liberation of Kuwait in the Gulf crisis,
and more recently the council requested intervention in Libya during that countrys turmoil, providing
vital support in the international arena and contributing militarily. As discussion turned to the prospect of
deeper coordination, integration and interdependence between the GCC states, participants considered
what the body has achieved and whether it is meeting the aspirations and needs of the Gulf populations.
One participant affirmed that there is a clear gap between what is required and the ability of the existing
bureaucracy to meet the demands of current times. With an unwieldy executive structure and committees
meeting just once or twice a year, there is a substantial need for a multilateral and vigorous decisionmaking process. Moreover, an independent judiciary to mediate disputes between member states is
fundamental, as can be demonstrated by recent discord between Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab
Emirates and Qatar, which resulted in the former three states withdrawing ambassadorial representation
from the latter. Participants agreed that as a council, the body has reached a certain limit. Gulf states
share certain economic, security and governance priorities; hence, further coordination between them can
contribute to their overall performance within these realms.
The idea of not just enhanced unity but a Gulf union, however, produces its own complications. There are
clear fault lines within the GCC which will prove challenging to overcome through greater union. Varying
priorities and interests between Gulf states, and indeed between communities within them, represent
undeniable obstacles. The issue of national representation presents another impediment, as it is unclear
who might lead such a union. The GCC states, comprising Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman
and the United Arab Emirates are all at various degrees of agreement with regards to a Gulf union. As one
participant asserted, the implications of a merger are manifold, potentially entailing a customs union,
unified foreign and defence policies, and enhanced coordination on domestic issues. Great compromises
would be required from each country at a time of relative regional incoherence. In terms of defence
coordination, it was noted that even within some Gulf states, for instance Saudi Arabia, internal
coordination among defence branches is problematic. This raises important questions, therefore, on the
feasibility of coordinating national defence the sovereign GCC states. Furthermore, participants agreed
that there exist significant differences of opinion on key regional issues, for instance engagement with
Iran, with issues such as Egypt and the Muslim Brotherhood representing crucial points of contention.
Contextualizing a prospective union
In weighing the potential benefits and shortcomings of greater union, participants considered further
implications, including what it would mean for citizens of Gulf countries. The European Union (EU) was
highlighted as an example: countries in the EU must concede to significant compromises on political and
economic sovereignty. Numerous benefits at present accrue under current arrangements within the GCC
framework increased trade and investment between member states, for instance. In terms of
advantages for indigenous populations, there is increased mobility within the GCC, with citizens able to

10 New Dynamics in GCC-UK Relations and the Prospects and Challenges for the GCC Union

travel between the various states using a national identification card. The common GCC power grid, in
addition to the planned Gulf Railway set to connect all six GCC countries by rail by 2017, are further
positive aspects.
That being said, some participants shared the view that the unanswered questions regarding greater Gulf
union overpower its potential benefits. For example, there is uncertainty surrounding the issue of GCC
labour markets and how the various states might coordinate their policies, particularly in relation to
migrant labour, to arrive at an appropriate regional arrangement. Current domestic issues within GCC
countries, moreover, are in need of attention and are in danger of being exacerbated by the merging of
national policies. Some of these include education, healthcare, employment and the general imperative of
social responsibility, as well as the vital issue of migrant labour rights. Some of the major concerns facing
the GCC entail sustainability issues: resource limitations and climate change are key areas of concern
which cannot be overstated.
Some participants referred to increased attention within the GCC states towards environmental and
sustainability matters as well as disaster planning, stating that increased cooperation between Gulf
countries might in fact lead to a robust framework to tackle these issues. It was argued however that there
remains a disconnect between the vision of GCC leaders and the needs of society. The announcement of a
potential GCC union took most of the Gulf population by surprise; increased input from Gulf citizens, and
a concerted public relations campaign to clarify the conditions and implications of Gulf union, is of
utmost importance. Communicating the potential benefits to respective populations, clarifying how they
might be affected by such developments, would make for a smoother and more harmonious transition
process should GCC union plans proceed.

Session 6: Comparative examples and lessons learnt

The sixth and final session of the workshop revolved around the EU model and how this might be a useful
template for the future of GCC cooperation. The foundations the EU were examined, as well as the
regional bodys various successes and failings. The EU has undergone many changes and has had to adapt
through times of uncertainty. While there exist significant differences between the two bodies, there may
also be valuable lessons to draw from the European regional body and its counterpart in the Gulf.
The EU framework: a useful model?
For the purposes of drawing parallels, the EU example can be a valuable template for the GCC. Although
it is a far greater union, including 28 member states, has deeper levels of integration and robust
governance mechanisms, the EU can provide a practical precedent for the GCC particularly with regards
to the limitations of multilateral cooperation. Several participants noted that the Eurozone crisis has
focused attention on the vulnerability of economic union, while EU parliamentary elections are
demonstrating the clear disconnect between the aspirations of respective European populations and the
direction in which national governments see the EU relationship heading. There are also issues
concerning member states, such as the United Kingdom, which encompass strong eurosceptic elements.
While the union has its natural tensions and difficulties, which are derived from its development and
growth, it has witnessed many changes since its inception. Being a treaty-based organization has
historically been a source of both strengths and weaknesses for the EU. The more legislation was
generated from Brussels, the greater the need was for direct parliamentary elections for the EU hence
the shift to direct elections for national representation within the regional body. However, with laws now
pouring out of Brussels, there is a sense of incoherence and exclusion within member states; the latter are

11 New Dynamics in GCC-UK Relations and the Prospects and Challenges for the GCC Union

unclear on the terms of their authority and autonomy. A myriad of ever-expanding treaties has served to
further complicate the situation.
One participant highlighted enlargement as a successful EU policy: including more nation-states in the
union has shaped the underlying aim and mechanism by which conflict resolution and prevention has
been achieved, effectively abolishing conflict between EU member states. Further successes include
secure food supplies within the EU, as well as a common defence policy, exemplified by strategic EU
cooperation with NATO. A mass of new member states has necessitated the promulgation of more laws;
and the mechanism by which peace is kept is further integration. At the heart of the union is the desire to
have no dictators within it, and therefore power must necessarily be widely distributed.
Prospects for the future
The EU enjoys significant successes to its credit. On the other hand, it suffers from important structural
weaknesses, which have been exacerbated over time. Being a multi-layered structure with various
decision-making bodies, the EU can be an unwieldy platform, and more often than not member-states are
left dissatisfied by developments within it.
There was overall agreement that should the GCC consider moving towards a more integrated
cooperation community, serious and strategic thinking must go into what exactly is desired from a closer
union, as well as what it would mean for existing national structures. For instance, what would
centralizing authority mean for the numerous majlises, consultative councils and other executive bodies
within the GCC? From the EU perspective, the development of a common foreign policy has been
unsuccessful; different nation-states have their own individual angles and priorities. The GCC may
experience similar difficulties: joint foreign policy formation at the top rarely works in reality, and is more
likely to experience success if it is developed from the inside.
Participants also discussed the need to build popular participation within the GCC, especially if its
member states wish to pursue deeper integration. Drawing on popular legitimacy is key to building a
sustainable and resilient alliance. Moreover, as mentioned above, communicating the terms as well as the
goals of enhanced cooperation to GCC citizens is paramount, and would lead to a more coherent and
structured relationship between member states and their respective populations. Democracy was a
fundamental element of the founding of the EU. Participants agreed that while this factor may not have
the same meaning for the GCC countries which have reasonably fostered their own respective systems
of government based on indigenous cultures greater accountability, transparency and public
participation are essential pillars for any meaningful GCC union.