Diplomatic Solutions Research Articles

Putting a Ceiling on Sealing: Conservation and Cooperation in the International Arena, 1909–1911

The biosphere presents unique challenges to the world's diplomats. Trained to operate in the realm of military might and economic influence, these women and men are now faced with an array of environmental issues which defy traditional diplomatic solutions. Natural resources, flora and fauna, and pollution rarely conform themselves to national boundaries; thus, environmental issues take on an international context. In many of these cases, the old methods of unilateral action and conflict will lead to more environmental damage. A new system, which stresses cooperation, must arise in order to solve international environmental issues. Fortunately, history provides an example of successful cooperation in handling a complex international environmental issue. As early as 1911, in the heart of the Great Power era, four nations came together to resolve a dispute over the North Pacific fur seal. Forsaking threats to wipe out the seals, the negotiators adopted the American conservationist doctrine of efficient exploitation of natural resources, which required cooperation, not conflict.' The fur seal issue was particularly complex. The seals wandered among several islands and across the North Pacific, crossing through international waters and several nations' territory. Hunters from

De oorlog om Koeweit ... : Een politiek strijdpunt in Vlaanderen ?

During the eighties the 'peace movement' became an important actor in Belgian politics. It was able to promote aspects of international relations and defense policy as 'political issues'. The influence on public opinion and political parties was considerably higher in Flanders than in the french speaking part of the country.After the annexiation of Kuwait by Iraq in August 1990, the Belgian government reacted more or less as these organisations desired: prudent, promoting UNO-initiatives and diplomatic solutions to the crisis. Therefore, these peace organisationswere attacked or infiltrated by extreme left wing parties, who wanted to support Saddam Hussein who was seen as a symbol of the third world. As a result of these left wing tactics, the peace movement could not act as it did during the eighties : as a broad force with a coherent programme, with organisations belonging to several ideological pillars and with influence on parties which traditionally belong to the government.