Is there still a place for cooperative security?

This article is part of the Special Issue on “The OSCE at 50: Reflections on security, cooperation and human rights”, published on a rolling basis between July and November 2025. The Special Issue was curated and edited Walter Kemp and Christian Strohal, Security and Human Rights Monitor Editorial Board members and guest editors-in chief.

Abstract

This article acknowledges that deterrence will likely be the dominant narrative and posture from both Russia and the West in the foreseeable future, but highlights the need for dialogue and cooperation to reduce risks and manage relations in an unstable security environment. It recalls how deterrence and détente were two pillars of security during the Cold War, and looks at how cooperative security can help to overcome the security dilemma currently faced by all sides. It also sketches out a possible process to discuss the future of European
security.