Collective Security or Collective Defence?

Abstract

Collective security is the seductive doctrine that failed in the thirties together with the parallel irenist dream associated with the laudable but idealistic Kellogg±Briand Pact which sought to abolish war itself. This doctrine has re-emerged in the post-ColdWar era with UNSC being seen once again as the instrument of the international community best able to maintain the peace. Thus, the hope that the UN in the 21st century could be empowered to implement the once failed doctrine of collective security based on Great Power unanimity, and joint action took centre stage during the heady days of the early nineties.