The New World Order

BY MIKHAIL GORBACHEV, FORMER PRESIDENT OF RUSSIA

The objectives of the Alliance Survey parallel the fundamental ideas of international fund of social, economic and political research, established by myself in 1991. The fund has been working in cooperation with our colleagues both in Russia and aboard on the project Globalization- challenges and solutions. As the title suggests, the main objective is to understand the phenomenon of globalization as one of the most important issues in the development of the world today.

The concept of globalization provides us with two alternate perspectives: firstly, from a progressive perspective, it can strengthen relations between countries and nations. On another level, it could be responsible for deepening contradiction and conflicts. These questions puzzle people on a world wide scale. The project houses 8 sub- projects: The Philosophy of Humanitarian Globalization, Dialogue of the cultures in the Globalized World, Global Economics - a challenge for National Economies, Ecological crises - the biggest challenge for civilisation, Politics and Power in the Globalized World, global Security, Russia in the developing global system, Mankind and Globalization.

The objective is to find solutions and gain knowledge of precautions, bringing to light alternatives based on research for the develop- ment of various scripts of action. The sub- projects focus on the achievements of democratic globalization. This incorporates the idea of a world unity that is based not on aggression and hegemony but on cooperation and strong relationships.

The objective is to find solutions and gain knowledge of precautions, bringing to light alternatives based on research for the develop- ment of various scripts of action. The sub- projects focus on the achievements of democratic globalization. This incorporates the idea of a world unity that is based not on aggression and hegemony but on cooperation and strong relationships.

Recently concern for world security has increased alarmingly. We only have to look at the Balkan crisis to remember what has taken place in the past.

The end of confrontation between two major powers and military blocks and the first steps towards disarmament were two of the greatest achievements of international politics. It was shown that it was possible to move away from hostility and move towards attempting too understand each other and opening ways for cooperation and partnership.

The decision to bring military force into Yugoslavia proves to be of high risk, with unpredictable consequences, not only for Europe but for the entire international community. It is a declaration of war on a sovereign country with internal conflicts.

Although the Yugoslavian government and various summits designed to reach peaceful agreements can be criticised for their failures, the military action of NATO cannot be justified. Their action was, in fact, a gross breach of international law. The UN charter permits such actions only in the case of self defence or when sanctioned by the security council. In this case, these aspects have been overlooked. What we have is the determi- nation of the Western Union led by the United States to establish a law of force and monopoly in the world at large.

One apparent outcome that is evident is the complex of the winner in the cold war, caused by a struggle for success. However, the complex of superiority in international affairs is more dangerous than inferiority itself.

It is clear that the application of military force is becoming more and more widespread amongst Western politicians. One question we must ask ourselves is whether the world has actually become a safer place as a result of these actions?

There are numerous areas in the world that are ridden with conflict. So is it really feasible to believe that these problems will be resolved through military strikes? Consequently, a new cold war could result from this type of action.

In the globalized world, the controversial subjects of war and peace take on new meanings. It is essential for us to act together as a world community in order to reach peace and provide social security. It is then vital that the United nations is given our full support. Its position can be strengthened by increasing its responsibilities and capabilities.

There are many countries that disagree with the strengthening of the global security system and with the determination to find solutions by taking peaceful action. Could such elements become apparent only in isolated parts of the world or could the world face the prospect of splitting apart once again? We must do everything possible to avoid the realisation of the second example.