Belgium's Policy towards Europe in Light of the Neutrality Imposed on It (1839 – 1918)
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Abstract
The concept of neutrality is a complex and contentious topic within the realm of public international law and the history of international relations. The concept of neutrality emerged at the Vienna Conference and was granted to the Swiss Confederation, the city of Krakow, and the territory of Morbisnet. International law acknowledges the concept of voluntary, self-imposed neutrality on a temporary basis. However, in the case of Belgian neutrality, which was imposed on the country in the 1830s during its establishment, it became a compulsory and permanent condition for the survival of an independent Belgium. This requirement was accepted by Belgian politicians, albeit reluctantly, as a condition for European recognition of their new state. Belgium remained committed to its permanent neutrality until the outbreak of World War I in 1914, when German forces violated this neutrality by entering Belgian territory. This violation put the British capital, London, at risk of German artillery, prompting Britain to intervene and participate in the conflict. War is used as a means to ensure the peace and safety of the Belgian territories by deterring European attack and defending their territory.
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