How credible is Austrian neutrality? Internal and external perception since 1955
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15203/4175.vol53.2024Abstract
This article raises the question of the credibility of Austrian neutrality and how it is perceived within and beyond Austria's borders. Although the policy of neutrality is an internal Austrian matter, neutrality determines the status of the Second Republic under international law and applies to interstate relations. As a result, what foreign countries perceive of neutrality is also important for Austria's international position and strategy. Since the declaration of Austria's perpetual neutrality on 26 October 1955, there
have been several interpretations of Austrian neutrality and its role in security policy, which is why this article takes a diachronic approach. First, it focuses on the discussions surrounding the declaration of neutrality and the fear shared by many states that a neutral Austria could become Europe's Trojan horse. Austria's "active neutrality policy" is then discussed: Despite diplomatic successes, which were due to a large extent to Bruno Kreisky, there were persistent doubts about Austria's ability to effectively defend its neutrality and territory. In a third part, the role of neutrality in security and defence policy since the 1990s and the accusation that Austria is a security policy free rider within the European Union are examined.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Laure Gallouët
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