Neutrality: A Realist Interpretation of Switzerland’s Perpetual Neutrality Policy
University of Barcelona — Final Degree Dissertation (2018)
103 pages
This academic work offers a comprehensive analysis of Switzerland’s perpetual neutrality, widely considered one of the most enduring and influential neutrality models in modern international relations. The study examines how Swiss neutrality—originating as a mechanism to stabilise European power dynamics—has evolved within the framework of contemporary geopolitics and its increasingly interconnected relationship with the European Union.
Despite adopting a significant portion of EU legislation through bilateral agreements, Switzerland maintains its status as one of the most consistent examples of non-alignment in global politics.
From a theoretical standpoint, the dissertation evaluates the extent to which the Realist school of International Relations can explain both the origins and the resilience of Swiss neutrality. It analyses historical events, security policies, institutional frameworks and geopolitical developments, testing whether the Realist paradigm successfully accounts for Switzerland’s strategic behaviour.
The research contributes to the academic discussion on neutrality as a tool of equilibrium, sovereignty and strategic autonomy, and positions the Swiss model as an instructive case for states navigating a multipolar world marked by uncertainty, shifting alliances and renewed geopolitical competition.
Recommended citation:
Peran Abella, Artald (2018). Neutralitat: una aplicació de la teoria de les relacions internacionals des de la perspectiva de l’escola realista al cas de la Confederació Suïssa. Universitat de Barcelona. 103 p.
Mastering Global Manned Guarding (2025)
By Artald Peran — Forthcoming Book
Mastering Global Manned Guarding is a strategic, data-driven and globally oriented book designed for Corporate Security Directors, Procurement Leaders, Risk Managers and senior executives overseeing guarding operations across international environments.
The book provides an in-depth analysis of the world’s manned guarding markets, exploring their regulatory frameworks, operational models, cost structures, vendor ecosystems and geopolitical influences. It consolidates years of field experience across Europe, North Africa and multinational corporate environments, as well as insights gained from working with Amazon, public sector institutions and major European security providers.
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