Urfan Khaliq analyses the theory and practice of the European Union's 'ethical foreign policy', arguing that current practices dilute the impact and efficacy of Union policies but that an effort which is at times effective is being made to protect certain values in the Union's international relations. Beginning with an investigation of the international rules authorising or obliging the Union/Community or the Member States to promote certain values in third countries or take action to protect them, Khaliq goes on to examine the limits under international law which constrain such policies. The issues are then assessed from a Union/Community law perspective, and the importance attached to ethical values and their relationship with other priorities and objectives is analysed in the context of relations with Myanmar, Nigeria, Pakistan, Israel and the Palestinian Authority. The European Community's humanitarian aid policy is also discussed.

Shortlisted for the SLS Peter Birks Prize for Outstanding Legal Scholarship 2009

Winner of the UACES Best Book Prize 2009

'There is much rich fodder for debate and discussion in Ethical Dimensions, and the book should be read by all those scholars - from any discipline - interested in the EU’s foreign policy ‘with an ethical dimension’ … a very useful tool.'

Source: European Law Journal

'This book is solidly based on meticulous factual, as well as legal, research and represents the most detailed empirical study to date on human rights in the EU's external relations. … [it] is indispensable reading for anyone interested in the constraints on, and possibilities of, human rights diplomacy.'

Source: Journal of Common Market Studies

'Khaliq has written an impressive book. It is rich both in empirical detail and legal analysis. Khaliq has made a significant contribution to a most important discussion. The book is highly recommendable to any reader interested in the relationship between EU foreign policy and international law.'

Source: European Journal of International Law