Libya and Security Challenges for the 2017 EU Presidency

Terror attacks in Europe, Brexit negotiations, and a volatile Mediterranean are but a few of the many critical issues facing the European Union as Malta takes over the EU Council Presidency on January 1, 2017. Only 220 miles separate Malta from Libya, one of the most complex and dangerous problems facing the region. Dr. Ian Borg will join the CSIS Transnational Threats Project to discuss Malta's intentions as it holds the EU Presidency, including addressing counterterrorism cooperation, Europe's southern Neighborhood, and the impact of violence and instability in Libya.

Dr. Ian Borg currently serves as the Parliamentary Secretary for the 2017 European Presidency and European Union Funding where his responsibilities include national preparations for Malta's Presidency of the Council of the European Union as well as strengthening of the European Union funds absorption process to achieve a more efficient and transparent practice. Dr. Borg graduated as a Doctor of Laws from the University of Malta in 2012, after successfully reading a Doctoral degree in Laws, a Diploma in Public Notarial Practice and a Bachelor’s Degree in Law.  Prior to his election to the House of Representatives, Dr. Borg served as Mayor of Ħad-Dingli after his election in 2005 and was reaffirmed in subsequent elections in 2008 and 2012.  In 2009, he was also elected as an Executive Member of the Local Councils Association, while also serving in the North Regional Committee and in the Users’ Committee of the Malta Environment and Planning Authority.