A comparative analysis of Maltese and Irish neutrality

Abstract

The main inspiration behind this dissertation lies in my Erasmus opportunity in Cork, Ireland which I embarked on between July and December 2023. This wonderful experience instilled in me a deep fondness for Ireland, sparking my curiosity about its history and inspiring me to include it in my dissertation. This dissertation examines the evolution of neutrality in Ireland and Malta, exploring how each country—shaped by distinct historical backgrounds and timelines—has adapted its policy to the shifting geopolitical landscape of the post-war era. Both nations have gradually developed foreign policies rooted in military non-alignment and active diplomatic engagement. The study reveals how Ireland and Malta have transformed their neutrality from a pragmatic means to an end centred around consolidating their independence into a dynamic framework that prioritises multilateralism, mediation, and peacekeeping. It also discusses recent challenges to neutrality, including the impact of hybrid security threats, and the ongoing relevance of neutrality in a rapidly shifting global landscape dominated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Middle East. By examining the strategic use of neutrality in both countries, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how small states can effectively engage in international affairs while maintaining their sovereignty and promoting international peace and respect for human rights. The analysis begins with a brief historical overview of neutrality, tracing its origins to Ancient Greece. Building on this foundation, the first two chapters explore the development of Maltese and Irish neutrality. Ireland’s policy emerged during World War II as a safeguard against British intervention, while Malta adopted neutrality post-independence to diversify its economy and navigate Cold War geopolitics. The third chapter provides a comparative analysis, contrasting how both states utilise neutrality within international organisations and as a security strategy. While Ireland prioritises peacekeeping and political advocacy, Malta leverages its neutrality for mediation and multilateral diplomacy. The concluding remarks assess how these developments evolved into the policy we know today and considers recent challenges and events which impacted Maltese and Irish neutrality.