Is neutrality possible in the 21st century?

With large-scale war back in Europe, tensions building over Taiwan and the spectre of a return to great power confrontation across the globe. Is it possible for any country to remain geopolitically neutral anymore?

Guests:

Amelia Hadfield
Head of Department of Politics at the University of Surrey

Henri Vanhanen
Research Fellow at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs

Gerard Howlin
Former Republic of Ireland government Adviser

[syedmaricar]

It's made impossible by comments from leaders "either you are with us or against us" even non aligned India succumbed to the words .

[PUAlum]

Very interesting conversation. Thanks to our hosts and contributors.

[kickDustPedestrian]

Possible if you can prevent colour revolution and coup attempts.

[StephenGillie]

The way to be geopolitically neutral is to say "Our nation is too busy making babies to care about your world events." Part of the problem with the world today is that humanity is getting so very, very old. And they don't know that the Country for Old Men (err People) is Ancient Rome, where Old (People) Planted Trees Under Which They'd Never Sit. Instead of making the world better on their way out, they try to tear it apart like a drowning person taking down their lifeguard in their panic.

[sendakan]

There has probably never been such a thing as absolute neutrality. But Europe is certainly not where to find its best examples. Former Non-Aligned Movement countries such as India, Indonesia, and Egypt are much closer to being truly neutral.

[janiekcarney]

Yes. Countries will have to chose how they will defend their own Countries. Do it themselves or cooperate with other Countries.

[janiekcarney]

If Ireland is not willing to do their part in defense, why should other Countries waste their resources on Ireland?? Sit their by yourself and stick you head in the sand. It is a World economy. No chips. No washers and dryers or cars or phones or computers etc. …..

[charleskristiansson]

Those who value peace, value neutrality. Go Ireland, go!

[janiekcarney]

Don’t think for a minute that being neutral will keep you safe. Dutch nearly starved to death being neutral in WWII.

[porksausage-tb]

Impossible there is always going to competition for raw materials land markets means of survival and progress power blocks are inevitable

[realMoMoPuFF]

It is possible for Switzerland because of their banks but it is forbidden to anyone else.