Medium-sized States and the International Security Architecture: Strategic Notes for the Argentine Case

Abstract

This article emphasizes that, despite South America’s problems and heterogeneity, the region has a remarkable tradition of contributions to peace and international security that cannot be underestimated in strategic terms. In our perspective, South America’s tradition of peace and cooperation represents a crucial input to define its strategic relationship with the international security architecture. In this paper we have set out the following aims. Firstly, we have briefly reviewed part of the recent literature on restriction of power, with special emphasis on the strategies usually deployed by middle powers throughout the international security system. Then, we have analyzed and recovered the concept of “heterodox autonomy”, suggested by Juan Carlos Puig, as we believe it constitutes an adequate conceptual platform for the deployment of strategies in the international security system. Finally, we have reviewed three issues that have a strategic relevance for our country: “Malvinas”, “Nuclear Proliferation” and “South American Defense Council”.