Collective Security.pdf

Theory and Practice of an Institution for Peace in the XX Century" by Filippo Andreatta is divided into two parts. Part I focuses on the theoretical debate, updating classical literature on collective security with contemporary contributions and original insights. It proposes a new concept of the conditional utility of institutions in international relations, attempting to overcome the "all or nothing" deadlock between neorealist and liberal paradigms.

The dissertation introduces two conceptions of collective security: a maximalist one, which defines it as a security system replacing all other mechanisms, and a minimalist one, which sees it as an international regime operating alongside other mechanisms. It analyzes the limits and shortcomings of the maximalist conception, arguing that it is unrealistic and counterproductive.

Part II applies the theoretical findings to three case studies: the Abyssinian crisis, the Korean War, and the Gulf Conflict. These cases were selected because they are the only uncontroversial instances of collective security being applied, and they are conveniently placed in three different international systems: the multipolar inter-war period, the bipolar Cold War, and the post-Cold War period.

The dissertation concludes by highlighting crucial issues for practitioners, with special reference to the prospects for a more stable system in the future. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the conditional utility of institutions in international relations and the need for a more nuanced approach to collective security. The dissertation also provides prescriptions for UN reform and discusses the prospects for collective security in the future.