Rola rozpoznania geoprzestrzennego w polityce bezpieczeństwa Unii Europejskiej .......... 295

Abstract

Geospatial intelligence is an intelligence discipline which, thanks to technological development, has exerted an increasing impact on national security policies and international cooperation. Building on imagery acquired through the use of optical, radar and telemetric equipment, it gives access to current, multi-layered situational knowledge about physical features and natural events on Earth, which is important in the decision-making processes conducted by states, institutions of state, and international organizations formed by states. This chapter presents the process of institutionalization of geospatial intelligence at the level of an international organization, on the example of the European Union. By characterizing the institutional arrangements and operational acti ­ vities undertaken by this organization, the author offers arguments for the thesis about the growing role of geospatial intelligence in raising strategic awareness among EU and Member States decision-makers in key areas of European security.