The role of small island states and jurisdictions in reinforcing global and regional security : the case of Malta

Abstract

Literature on the role of islands in terms of foreign policy and security studies is largely absent. The literature available focusses on security and small states (which in some cases are also islands). Thus, this dissertation seeks to examine the role small island states and jurisdictions play in the provision of regional and global security. The hypothesis of this study is that small island states reinforce rather than threaten regional and global security. Due to the absence of theory on small islands, four short case studies across time and space were taken to help identify the different factors linking small islands and security. The dissertation uses a selection of secondary sources and primary sources including interviews, newspapers, memoirs, cables, and documents, bilateral agreements, maps and reports. These help formulate a clear view of the role of small islands and how this has been viewed by different actors. The case of Malta is introduced through an overview of the role it played throughout the ages. The study then takes a closer look at two specific case studies across time. The period 1974 - 1979 is defined by the 1972 Military Facilities Agreement. This period helps the reader understand the nature of the Cold War hard security interest in Malta and the ways Malta contributed to the security of medium and super powers in a bi-polar world. The period 2004 - 2009 is framed within the newly acquired status of EU membership and the different debates concerning Malta's neutrality. This case study helps analyse the new security issues which have risen after the end of the Cold War and 9/11. The case studies pinpoint some characteristics and similarities pertinent to most small island states and jurisdictions. They help illustrate the fact that island states have continuously played a role in the provision of security.