This book identifies geographical areas in Europe that are, or have been, demilitarized and/or neutralized through an international legal arrangement.
The concepts of demilitarization and neutralization are analyzed. This is followed by a review of geographical areas that have, or have had, a demilitarized or neutralized status. The study deals with European conditions. The available source material consists largely of peace treaties. Some comprehensive studies have also been included.
Academic interest in demilitarization and neutralization has declined since World War II. One important exception, however, is the status of Åland under international law, including its autonomy, which has attracted relatively extensive interest from a Nordic perspective.
The book also contains a theoretical discussion of demilitarization and neutralization.