Union for the Mediterranean: how realistic an exercise in foresight?

Purpose – The objective of this paper is to determine the feasibility of binding, politically, economically and culturally, the Mediterranean Sea's southern and northern coasts. Design/methodology/approach – The paper evokes the gains and limitations of such an undertaking. Findings – The paper finds that the initiative may be premature, but a formal relationship should strengthen ties between the new Europe and industrializing portions of North Africa and the western Middle East. Originality/value – Strong efforts by one European leader to rationalize the relationships of the European Union with nearly two‐dozen Islamic States hold promise politically, economically and perhaps culturally.