The EU as a Strategic Actor presents an exploration of the shifting power structures of the EU as it becomes oriented toward a unique role of global governance utilizing a "soft- hard power" duality in a post-hegemonic era. In the last ten years, an exceptional and diverse series of impacting events have unfolded, all of which pose seemingly discontinuous challenges and threats to the EU and a score of international actors. As higher expectations of international bodies in responding to emerging challenges within the global system continue to surface, the shifting structures of actors dealing with those challenges can be readily observed. With the global conflict map undergoing strident change, the focus of analysts is shifting to the strategic and global role of the European Union. The EU is seen, more than ever, as a viable and legitimate player with the capacity to respond effectively to existing and anticipated crises in a coherent and coordinated manner, particularly through the use of force.