Peace and Security in Europe: The Context for Denmark's Choices

Abstract

Sørensen, G. Peace and Security in Europe: The Context for Denmark's Choices. Cooperation and Conflict, XXI, 1986, 219-240. The article first explores the conceptual problems of peace and security. It proceeds to discuss four issues relevant for Denmark's security situation: the military balance in Europe; the shift in the hierarchy of powers in the West and its implications for stability; the dynamics of the Soviet Union and its European allies; and finally, the prospects for increased cooperation in Europe. It then turns to the national context, looking at the constraints on Danish security strategies from this angle, including a brief discussion on possible directions of change in the prevailing security policy. The conclusion stresses the following points: (1) The security issue is extremely complex, because it involves a vast number of threats to the individual and to the nation-state, and because the international system poses severe constraints on the possibility of coping with security challenges. (2) The threat of less stable and peaceful conditions in Europe is not only, or even primarily, related to the build-up of armaments. Increased tension on the military front has non-military roots. (3) The present Danish debate on security is rather narrow, focused on military and strategic issues. There is urgent need for a more comprehensive approach.