Military interventions are actions taken by one state that involves the use of armed forces against another state. Due to globalisation, military interventions in one state or region has a far-reaching impact on international relations between countries. In this article, we will explore the various impacts of military interventions on international relations between countries, in terms of war, cooperation and economic implications.
Impact of Military Interventions on War
One of the obvious impacts of military interventions is an increase in war-related activities, including armed conflicts between states. Depending on the nature and goals of the intervention, a state may directly or indirectly engage in hostilities with other states. For example, in the past decade, U.S. interventions in the Middle East have led to an increase in the number of armed conflicts between states.
Additionally, military interventions can increase the chances of a state using unconventional warfare tactics, such as using proxy forces or non-state actors to fight. This can make it difficult for international organizations such as the United Nations to achieve peace or stability in the affected area.
Impact of Military Interventions on Cooperation
Apart from war and conflict, military interventions can also have an impact on international cooperation. In many cases, interventions may lead to diplomatic tensions between countries, as other states may view the intervention as an example of interference in their internal affairs. This can lead to a breakdown in diplomatic ties and an increase in hostility between countries.
Military interventions can also have the opposite effect and reinforce existing international cooperation. In certain cases, an intervention may be seen as an act of solidarity or humanitarian aid, which can strengthen ties between countries. For example, NATO operations in the Balkans in the 1990s were viewed by some as a humanitarian effort to restore normality in the region.
Economic Implications of Military Interventions
The economic implications of military interventions are often overlooked, but can be far-reaching and long-lasting. Firstly, military interventions usually involve significant cost in terms of resources and personnel. For example, the U.S. has spent billions of dollars on its operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and this has had a significant impact on the national economy.
Secondly, military interventions can complicate existing trade relationships between countries. This may be due to the imposition of economic sanctions, or even the pre-emptive targeting of a state’s economy. This can have a detrimental effect on international trade and can lead to economic insecurity, especially in developing countries.
Finally, military interventions may have an effect on a state’s ability to attract foreign investment. This is due to investors’ concerns over the stability of the region, or even the possibility of a state engaging in hostilities.
Military interventions can have a far-reaching impact on international relations. The impact of such interventions can be both positive and negative, in terms of war, cooperation and economic implications. Understanding the various impacts of military interventions is essential for states to navigate the international arena in a nuanced and effective manner.
