Suchergebnisse

According to the theoretical construction presented in this article, the integration prob lem of a state actor with respect to an integration phenomenon is a resultant of two countervailing forces - integration pressures and integration restraints. These, in turn, are decomposable into lower-level concepts. Neutrality as a foreign policy orientation entails obligations which give rise to particular integration restraints. There are a number of methods the neutral can use to deal with the problem. According to the dominant methods in its over-all behavioral profile, its basic mode of adaptation can be called either adaptation to restraints or adaptation of restraints. There is also the possibility of evading the problem without adaptation to or adaptation of restraints. An empirical analysis shows that Sweden, Switzerland and Austria have mainly resorted to adaptation of restraints and Finland predominantly to adaptation to restraints as well as particular problem-evading methods in dealing with their postwar integration problems.

Recent developments in East-West relations have in some connections given impetus to discussions on the role of small and neutral countries in furthering cooperative processes, for instance, through providing examples. The authors examine the Finnish position and performance in this context, with special emphasis on economic coopera tion. Through a comparative analysis it is found that Finland is exceptional in many respects, and that, in the light of the criteria adopted, she qualifies with reservations as a model. In empirical terms this means that Finland has been exceptionally active in trading with the socialist countries, in initiating new forms of economic cooperation, and in overall responsiveness. The possible implications of the Finnish model for East-West cooperation in the future are also taken up for discussion.