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What are Confidence-Building Measures?

Introduction Confidence-building measures (CBMs) or confidence- and security-building measures (CSBMs) are actions taken to reduce fear of attack by both (or more) parties in a situation of conflict. The term is most often used in the context of armed conflict, but is similar in logic to that of trust and interpersonal communication used to reduce… Read More

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What is the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia?

Introduction The Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA) is an inter-governmental forum for enhancing cooperation towards promoting peace, security and stability in Asia. It is a forum based on the recognition that there is a close link between peace, security and stability in Asia and in the rest of the world. The… Read More

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What are the Helsinki Accords (1975)?

Introduction The Helsinki Final Act, also known as Helsinki Accords or Helsinki Declaration was the document signed at the closing meeting of the third phase of the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe (CSCE) held in Helsinki, Finland, between 30 July and 01 August 1975, following two years of negotiations known as the Helsinki… Read More

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What is the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe?

Introduction The Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE), also known as the US Helsinki Commission, is an independent US government agency created by Congress in 1975 to monitor and encourage compliance with the Helsinki Final Act and other Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) commitments. It was initiated by House representative… Read More

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What is the Assistance Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs (US)?

Introduction The Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs is a position within the US Department of State that manages the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, charged with linking the Department of Defence and the Department of State by providing policy in the areas of international security, security assistance, military operations, defence strategy and policy, military… Read More

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What was Operation Halo (2004)?

Introduction Operation Halo was the Canadian Forces contribution of 500 personnel and 6 CH-146 Griffon helicopters to Haiti in March 2004 as part of the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in Haiti to assist in stabilising the country following February’s 2004 Haitian coup d’état. Refer to Operation Hestia (2010) and peacekeeping. Outline Though originally mandated for… Read More