Competing security doctrines and a Nordic nuclear-free zone

Richard Bitzinger

Expert InsightsPublished 1988

This paper explores many problems common to the creation of nuclear-free zones (NFZs) throughout the world, using a Nordic NFZ as a case study. It discusses the contending issues surrounding the establishment of such a zone, as well as the security implications of a Nordic NFZ. In particular, the author finds that although a Nordic NFZ may suit the security needs of the Nordic neutral states, alliance commitments and NATO defense doctrine make Danish and Norwegian entry into such a zone currently impossible. In fact, any NFZ that has a real impact on Western nuclear defense strategy is likely to be unacceptable to NATO and therefore divisive to Western security and defense policy.

Document Details

  • Copyright: RAND Corporation
  • Availability: Web Only
  • Year: 1988
  • Pages: 24
  • Document Number: P-7502

Citation

Chicago Manual of Style

Bitzinger, Richard, Competing security doctrines and a Nordic nuclear-free zone. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1988. https://www.rand.org/pubs/papers/P7502.html.
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