A New Military Dimension of a Cooperative and Preventive Approach to Security in Southeast Europe
A New Military Dimension of a Cooperative and Preventive Approach to Security in Southeast Europe

Summary/Abstract: The author presents a case for expanding the military dimension of a cooperative and preventive approach to security challenges in Southeast Europe – a troubled region attracting significant international attention at the turn of the millennium. The military, a fundamental building block and one of the most recognizable characteristics of a modern state, is adapting to the changes in the international security environment and reexamining its functional responsibilities. Cooperative security and preventive defense concepts promote military cooperation and look to prevent dangerous situations from arising and ultimately prevent wars of aggression and violent conflict. Leading countries, international institutions and various initiatives look to foster stability and security in Southeast Europe. The Military dimension of these efforts has significant potentials for promoting and contributing to peace and preventing conflicts. International military cooperation can be systematically categorized and analyzed by examining the form, nature and aspects of the cooperative activities. Forms of military cooperation include military-to-military contacts, exchange of information, education and training opportunities, joint exercises and training, seminars, peace support operations and multinational forces. Euro-Atlantic integration is perhaps the ultimate means of cooperation and conflict prevention. Croatia has a robust bilateral military cooperation program and is expected to raise its multilateral efforts to a new level.

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