Problems of Disarmament and Regional Conflicts

The Cold War is over, and for the USA and its Western allies an era of peace is emerging. After many years, it appears that not a single nation or group of nations is opposing them. This victory of democracy over totalitarianism may lead to complacency, but there is no guarantee that there will be no conflict in the future just because there is no danger now. This is an interdependent world, where instant communication and technological development have in effect greatly reduced geographical distances. Our past enemies are now our allies. The future will depend on the world power configuration and the definition of our interest. Our concept and support of democracy and free enterprise have always been dependent on our perception of economic interest and security. The Cold War led to a specific geographic, political and economic structure in the world. Now that it is over, after some initial disequilibrium and conflicts (often violent), a new type of structure will emerge based on some centripetal and centrifugal forces (see Gaddis, 1992).