In and out of history: the geopolitical role of the Mediterranean in a changing international system

The wider Mediterranean basin is currently experiencing the controversial unfolding of a complex matrix of political, economic and security crises that are shaking the bases of our socio-political and institutional systems, and which are often translated into conflicts based on religious, ethnic or tribal identities. However, it is too easy to focus only on the crises and polarizing trends that are tormenting this basin. On the contrary, it is important that Mediterranean European member states, such as Italy, emphasise the potential positive centrality of the Mediterranean, underlining the importance of creating a new long-term strategy to address the imbalances and the elements of instability present in the region.