A Farewell to Wars: The Growing Restraints on the Interstate Use of Force

Hans Blix, a seasoned diplomat and international lawyer, analyzes the trends in conflicts and other developments after World War II. He notes that new restraints on the use of force have emerged due to concerns about nuclear war, economic interdependence, and UN Charter rules. States are increasingly using economic or cyber means to battle their adversaries, rejecting the fatalistic assumption that there will always be war. Blix suggests that leading powers are choosing to continue their competition for power and influence in the economic and information battlefields.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 310 pages
Publication date: 23 November 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Since the conclusion of World War II, there has been a notable trend towards a reduction in the number of wars that have occurred globally. However, the Russian invasion of the Ukraine in 2014 stands as a significant exception to this trend. With a wealth of experience spanning decades as an international lawyer, diplomat, and the head of UN Iraq inspections, Hans Blix has delved into the examination of conflicts and other developments that have transpired since the end of World War II. In his analysis, Blix identifies the emergence of new restraints on the use of force as a result of various factors. These include concerns about the potential for nuclear war, economic interdependence among nations, and the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter.

As states become less interested in territorial conquest, they increasingly resort to economic or cyber means to confront their adversaries. While this shift may present certain risks, it should also be viewed as a welcome alternative to the traditional methods of war. By closely examining these new restraints, Blix challenges the fatalistic notion that war is an inevitable part of human history. Instead, he suggests that leading powers are moving away from previous patterns of conflict, opting instead to continue their competition for power and influence on the battlefields of the economy and information.

In conclusion, the trend towards fewer wars since World War II has been a positive development. However, the Russian invasion of the Ukraine serves as a reminder that conflicts can still arise, even in the modern world. By examining the new restraints on the use of force and the changing dynamics of conflict, Blix offers valuable insights into the evolving nature of international relations. His work suggests that while war may still be a part of human history, there are opportunities for nations to pursue alternative means of conflict resolution and cooperation.

Weight: 480g
Dimension: 226 x 153 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009392501