Seeking the Right Balance

NATO and EU in Dutch Foreign and Defense Policy

Resumo

Dutch foreign policy was once characterized as based on “peace, profits and principles”. As a matter of fact, Dutch foreign policy hassimilar characteristics of other highly developed, rich, medium powers. As a foreign policy instrument, the offensive use of its armed forces is not the first choice; instead emphasis is given to strengthening the international rule of law and multinational organizations to create stable and peaceful international relations. What really distinguishes the Netherlands is its focus on transatlantic relations to keep its Independence from the major continental powers. Due to the geo strategic changes of the 1990s, this focus has lost its relevance. As Europe is no longer the first strategic priority in security of the Americans and defense matters the Netherlands tries to find a new balance between traditional transatlanticism, which is embodied in NATO and the emerging European Security and Defense policy (EDSP).