Andrén, N. On the Meaning and Uses of Neutrality. Cooperation and Conflict, XXVI, 1991, 67-83

Abstract

This paper deals with four aspects of neutrality. The first is the changing use of the word — from a purely legal concept to a broad political term. Behind this transformation lies a number of factors related to the development of the post-World War II political system. The second aspect bears on the use and understanding of the concept in Swedish foreign policy — and its ensuing role in domestic politics. The third aspect concerns the various kinds of judgement to which the Swedish policy of neutrality has from time to time been exposed. One conclusion is that Swedish policy of neutrality is criticized both on the basis of imprecise definitions of neutrality and because of ambivalence in Sweden's own application of the principle. A fourth and final observation deals with the possibilities for a revised paradigm for neutrality as an effect of the new developments in the European security order.