On the Perceived Obstacles to NATO Enlargement.
Abstract
All too often when the issue of NATO enlargement is raised some of the current members object to it due to one of several preconceptions. The more common objections include the potential members' perceived domestic and economic problems, the various disputes betwem these countries themselves, and the adverse position Russia has taken regarding the question. The author intends to show that present requirements, as set forth in the September 1995 'Study on NATO Enlargement,' were not applied to previous enlargements, a fact that raises the question of fairness in present members' expectations. Furthermore, by exarnining three alternative scenarios for Russia in the fliture, it will be shown that none of these suggests that the issue of enlargement should be dropped. Finally, the study of Hungary, a country representing a 'middle ground' among the so-called 'Visegrad four,' will demonstrate that Hungary is closer today to complying with the strict expectations set forth in the document than previously added members were, although their task was much less demanding. This implies that stereotypes are involved in resistance to NATO enlargement, which should be set aside if only to secure a more stable regional environment in Europe.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA312716
Entities
People
- Andrea Rozsa
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School