Effects of Non-Alignment on Neutrality in Europe: An Analysis and Appraisal

Abstract

Hakovirta, Harto. Effects of Non-Alignment on Neutrality in Europe: An Analysis and Appraisal. Cooperation and Conflict, XVIII, 1983, 57-75.

The effects of non-alignment on European neutrality are analyzed and appraised. Six dimensions of neutrality are discussed: stability, scope, crystallization, credibility, acceptability, and international utility. Some of the basic similarities between the non-aligned and the neutral countries, the development of contacts between them, and Yugoslavian linkage activities are identified as the major preconditions of the effects. Non-alignment tends to destabilize and decrystallize the traditions of European neutrality. The development of a closer relationship between the European neutral states and the non-aligned movement would very likely decrease the credibility and the acceptability of their policies in Western eyes, whereas its repercussions in the East would be more uncertain. The capacities of European neutral states to play traditional third-party roles might be reduced, but closer cooperation with the non aligned might simultaneously provide possibilities for international influence on issues of global importance. Development of the non-aligned movement since the early 1970's has tended to make it politically less attractive to the European neutral states. A return to the earlier lines, dominated more strongly by countries like Yugoslavia and India, would increase the attraction.