Norway's Foreign Policy in the Twenty-first Century

Examining Norway's foreign policy in the twenty-first century, this book takes a closer look at a small state which has come to be known as a "peace nation". Covering themes such as security and defence, development aid and European integration, the author argues that Norway has in fact maintained a realist approach to its foreign policy, despite often being presented as an idealist country. The policies and actions of Norwegian governments demonstrate an understanding of power politics and a desire to, above all, promote national interests. The author explores the country's global relations with the USA and NATO, with the countries of the European Union, and with great powers such as Russia and China. Drawing on government sources such as white papers, statements and reports, parliamentary debates and opinion pieces in news outlets, as well as a wide selection of academic sources, this book provides a comprehensive analysis of Norway's foreign relations from the millennium to the present day. By taking a historical approach and discussing developments that occurred before the turn of the century, the book argues that continuity and stability are fundamental features of contemporary Norwegian foreign policy.