This edited volume offers a critical analysis of the complex and contested field of European Union democracy support and democratic practices in its Eastern and Southern neighbourhoods. Drawing on extensive empirical and discourse research developed within the SHAPEDEM-EU project, and focusing on six case studies (Armenia, Georgia, Ukraine, Lebanon, Palestine and Tunisia), it examines how the EU's democratic commitments are articulated, challenged and implemented in diverse neighbouring contexts. While democracy support is officially framed as a central pillar of EU foreign policy, this volume addresses the persistent gap between rhetoric and practical implementation. By combining discourse analysis with an investigation of policy instruments, it highlights how democracy is both narrated and enacted by the EU, revealing contrasts between its stated normative aspirations and interests.
By integrating discursive and behavioural perspectives, the volume offers insights into how the EU can rethink and reshape its democracy support and practices in its Eastern and Southern neighbourhoods. It highlights the need to move beyond symbolic commitments toward more inclusive, context-sensitive and socially empowering practices. Ultimately, it invites critical reflection on how the EU should strengthen its credibility and effectiveness as a supporter of democracy in an increasingly complex and contested regional landscape.

Akram Ezzamouri is a researcher in IAI's 'Mediterranean, Middle East and Africa' research programme.