Putting the 'NZ' Back into ANZUS: Does it Matter
Abstract
In 1951, the Australia New Zealand United States (ANZUS) Treaty was signed. This treaty was written when there was concern of communist expansion into South East Asia and beyond. In 1986, New Zealand's membership of this treaty was suspended by the United States due to incompatible positions regarding nuclear weapons: New Zealand declared itself nuclear free, and the United States would neither confirm nor deny if any of its ships visiting New Zealand were nuclear-powered or nuclear capable. Over the last 20 years, the two countries have managed to work around their differences to foster a close defense relationship. This Strategy Research Project examines the current defense relationship between New Zealand and the United States and offers suggestions for the way forward. The paper concludes that the 'NZ' cannot be put back into ANZUS, nor does it matter. First, the treaty is no longer relevant and serves no purpose in the 21st century. Second, the nuclear debate is irreconcilable and should not be the central issue in the defense relationship. What does matter is how New Zealand and the United States can progress their defense relationship as they navigate their way through the complex international environment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 29, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA478290
Entities
People
- Howard V. Duffy
Organizations
- United States Army War College