From neutrality to engagement: why the EU must revisit its Kashmir policy

As tensions continue to flare, the EU must ask itself: is neutrality in the face of persistent violence a viable form of diplomacy, writes Nawab Khan.

Nawab Khan is an Indian journalist who is a long-time resident in Brussels. Views expressed are personal. He can be reached at nawab_khan@hotmail.com

The European Union on Wednesday (7 May) reiterated its customary call for restraint and urged immediate steps toward de-escalation in the Kashmir conflict.

The statement read by an EU foreign affairs’ spokesman at the daily European Commission press briefing follows a series of missile strikes by Indian armed forces targeting nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, according to an Indian government statement.

The strikes were carried out in response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on 22 April in which 26 people, all Hindus except two, were gunned down by the terrorists.

On its part, Pakistan’s National Security Council announced that the country’s armed forces have been duly authorised to undertake retaliation at a time, place, and manner of their choosing in response to the Indian military strikes.

The EU’s consistently passive stance positions it more as a distant observer than an active stakeholder in promoting peace and accountability in the region.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas last week spoke with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, calling on both sides to pursue dialogue and show restraint.

Despite the renewed escalation, the European Union’s response remained largely formulaic, offering little beyond diplomatic platitudes. For many observers, the EU’s approach underscores a broader pattern: the bloc has consistently positioned itself as a neutral observer in the Kashmir issue, avoiding direct involvement or critique of either party—even in the face of grave provocations and humanitarian concerns.

The 27-member European blocs’ consistently passive stance positions it more as a distant observer than an active stakeholder in promoting peace and accountability in the region.

Critics argue that the EU’s cautious diplomacy may undermine its credibility as a global actor advocating for human rights and conflict resolution. By avoiding a firmer stance on cross-border terrorism and the impact of terrorist activity in the region, the EU risks being viewed not as a peace broker, but as an indifferent bystander.

Furthermore, the lack of proactive engagement raises questions about the EU’s broader strategic interests in South Asia. While trade, climate, and migration often dominate EU–India dialogues, the issue of regional security—particularly in conflict-prone areas like Kashmir—remains largely peripheral.

In a region where geopolitical stakes are high and civilian lives are constantly affected by terrorism, many believe the time has come for the EU to revise its role. A more assertive, balanced, and engaged approach—grounded in both diplomacy and moral responsibility—could contribute meaningfully to long-term peace and stability.

During her visit to New Delhi in February, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen placed a strong emphasis on strengthening security and anti-terrorism cooperation between the European Union and India. She called for a pragmatic and realistic approach to realigning EU priorities, stressing the need to adapt to the current global landscape. Hence, these adjustments are crucial and stand to be implemented without delay.

As tensions continue to flare, the EU must ask itself: Is neutrality in the face of persistent violence a viable form of diplomacy? Or is it time to step beyond rhetoric and into responsible, principled action?

The EU has historically walked a tightrope on Kashmir, wary of jeopardizing its relations with either India or Pakistan. While trade, climate, and migration often dominate EU–India dialogues, the issue of regional security—particularly in conflict-prone areas like Kashmir—remains largely peripheral.

Still, many observers believe the EU has a unique opportunity to play a more constructive role, given its emphasis on democratic values and multilateralism

As tensions continue to flare, the EU must ask itself: is neutrality in the face of persistent violence a viable form of diplomacy? Or is it time to step beyond rhetoric and into responsible, principled action?

Reassessing the EU’s relationship with Pakistan is not about abandoning the country but about adopting a more principled approach that ensures EU resources are used to foster real changes.

EUalive welcomes diverse perspectives on the complex issue of Kashmir to foster a balanced and informed dialogue.

Caption: Indian security forces patrol a road in Pampore, in the outskirts of Srinagar, the summer capital of Indian-administered Kashmir, 07 May 2025. The Indian government said it had carried out military strikes on nine sites in Pakistan in retaliation for the deadly militant attack on tourists in the popular tourist resort of Pahalgam on 22 April, which left 26 dead and several injured. [EPA-EFE/FAROOQ KHAN]