The term “like-minded countries” has become a staple of international politics, including in the EU. Yet it is rarely defined clearly.
In practice, the concept is used in two different ways.
The first is functional. Countries are described as like-minded when their interests align on a particular issue. Cooperation under this definition is pragmatic and often temporary: governments work together where objectives coincide, even if their political systems, values or long-term interests differ.
The second is value-based. Here, like-mindedness refers to countries that share fundamental political principles, most commonly liberal democracy and the rule of law. This form of alignment creates a deeper level of trust, enabling closer coordination, the sharing of sensitive information and the acceptance of mutual vulnerabilities.
The distinction matters. Even within the EU, questions have emerged about whether governments undermining democratic norms can still be considered like-minded partners.
Global geopolitics complicates the picture further. Where does the United States stand when its commitment to multilateral rules fluctuates? Can China be considered functionally like-minded on some global challenges? And what about countries beyond the West that support open, free and fair trade?
In practice, both definitions will continue to coexist. But confusing them is dangerous. Functional cooperation can expand partnerships, but only value-based alignment creates the trust needed for deeper integration and collective action. The question is therefore not whether countries are like-minded, but in what sense — because that determines how far cooperation can realistically go.
Fabian Zuleeg is Chief Executive and Chief Economist at the European Policy Centre.
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