Conflict Prevention in Europe

Abstract

The establishment in 1993 of a Nordic-dominated United Nations Protection Force in the troubled Republic of Macedonia was seen as the first example of a UN conflict prevention force. The Nordic battalion in Macedonia is placed here in the context of UN action in former Yugoslavia, as well as wider UN operations, and is also seen as a continuation of Nordic contributions to peace-keeping. However, another element is examined: it seems the operation fits into a particular liberal-institutionalist view of European security, espoused by Nordic leaders, that values conflict prevention action. This liberalinstitutionalist view is outlined, and a possible link with the Macedonian operation suggested. Despite the Nordic action, the future of Macedonia is scarcely assured.