Steven Robinson: Portuguese Security Policy
Towards a Lusophone Vision
Location: Old Library Building, Research Beehive, room 2.20
Time/Date: 24th February 2011, 16:00 - 17:00
ReCap recording now available - watch to the presentation as a video-stream.
Portuguese security policy in the twenty-first century is firmly grounded in multilateral institutions. The importance, and relevance, of the NATO alliance and the European Union to Portuguese security and defence policy are unequivocal. However, in recent years the Community of Portuguese-speaking Countries (CPLP) has emerged as important player in Portuguese security policy. There is, therefore, scope for Portuguese security policy to now have a Lusophone dimension.
This paper explores how Portuguese security policy is seeking to locate itself in three arenas (NATO, the EU, and the Lusophone world) and examines the potential for Portugal to be central in linking the three organisations together. What is to be gained by linking the North Atlantic and the South Atlantic and why is Portugal interested in doing this? Is a common language (the premise upon which the CPLP was founded) a sound and justifiable basis for building meaningful security and defence relations? To what extent is Portugal’s enthusiasm for the CPLP not reflected in the actions of its other member countries, and why? Portugal has already signalled a departure from NATO and EU security arrangements in favour of Lusophone ties, by opting to buy Brazilian KC-390 aircraft. To what extent will this Lusophone security venture be lasting and successful?
Published: 24th September 2010