Europe Alone: Small State Security without the United States

The US has been the leading force in maintaining European security since WWII, but with changing economic and political positions, it is uncertain if it can continue to be a reliable partner. Europe Alone explores the prospects of European security in a future without the US and seeks to broaden the concept of security beyond traditional domestic policing or national defense.

Format: Hardback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 16 October 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Since the end of World War II and the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, the United States has assumed a pivotal role in ensuring European security through its membership in NATO. However, over the past seventy-five years, significant economic and political transformations have occurred in both the United States and Europe, raising concerns about America's ability to meet the security needs of its European partners, particularly in the face of the growing assertiveness of the Russian Federation as a military and political force.

Europe Alone delves into the future prospects of European security in a world where the United States may no longer be a reliable ally. Leading security scholars offer a comprehensive examination of the evolving role and significance of national security in the years to come. They explore European security issues from the perspective of small states, aiming to expand the concept of security beyond traditional domestic policing and national defense.

One key theme in the book is the growing importance of regional cooperation and multilateralism in addressing European security challenges. Scholars argue that the traditional approach of relying solely on the United States for security is no longer sustainable, given the changing geopolitical landscape. They advocate for a more decentralized and collaborative approach, where European countries work together to address shared threats and promote stability.

Another important aspect of the book is the consideration of the role of technology and innovation in shaping the future of European security. Scholars argue that the rapid pace of technological change is transforming the nature of warfare, and European countries must adapt to these new challenges. They explore the potential benefits and risks associated with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cyber warfare, and autonomous weapons, and discuss the strategies that European countries can adopt to mitigate these risks and exploit their potential benefits.

The book also examines the challenges posed by demographic changes, migration, and refugee flows in Europe. Scholars argue that these factors can exacerbate security tensions and undermine social cohesion. They discuss the strategies that European countries can adopt to manage these challenges, including integration policies, border control measures, and efforts to promote social inclusion and economic development.

In conclusion, Europe Alone provides a valuable insight into the future prospects of European security in a world where the United States may no longer be a dominant player. By exploring the changing role and meaning of national security, the book offers a multifaceted approach to understanding the challenges and opportunities facing European countries. It highlights the importance of regional cooperation, technological innovation, and social inclusion in shaping a secure and prosperous future for Europe.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538167281