15.3 Impact on Cold War tensions and European integration

Ostpolitik, the policy of normalization with Eastern Europe, had far-reaching effects on Cold War dynamics. It eased tensions between East and West, paving the way for diplomatic breakthroughs like the Helsinki Accords and improved NATO-Warsaw Pact relations.

The thawing of Cold War hostilities also accelerated European integration. German reunification became possible, while the European Economic Community expanded and evolved into the European Union, fostering closer cooperation among Western European nations.

Easing of Cold War Tensions

Helsinki Accords and CSCE Impact

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• Easing of Cold War tensions resulted from diplomatic efforts and international agreements
• Helsinki Accords signed in 1975 marked a significant milestone in East-West relations
  • Recognized post-World War II borders in Europe
  • Established principles for interstate relations, including respect for human rights
  • Promoted economic, scientific, and cultural cooperation between East and West
• Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe (CSCE) organized to implement Helsinki Accords
  • Provided a forum for ongoing dialogue between NATO and Warsaw Pact countries
  • Addressed issues such as arms control, human rights, and economic cooperation
  • Evolved into the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in 1995

NATO-Warsaw Pact Relations

• NATO-Warsaw Pact relations gradually improved during the 1970s and 1980s
• Mutual and Balanced Force Reductions (MBFR) talks initiated in 1973
  • Aimed to reduce conventional forces in Central Europe
  • Contributed to increased transparency and trust between blocs
• Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) led to agreements on nuclear weapons
  • SALT I (1972) limited deployment of anti-ballistic missile systems
  • SALT II (1979) set limits on strategic nuclear delivery vehicles
• Confidence-building measures implemented between military alliances
  • Increased military-to-military contacts and exchanges
  • Establishment of "hotlines" for crisis communication
• Warsaw Pact dissolution in 1991 marked the end of the Cold War military standoff in Europe

German Reunification and European Integration

German Reunification Process

• German reunification groundwork laid by Ostpolitik and improved East-West relations
• Four-Power Agreement on Berlin (1971) eased tensions over divided city
  • Guaranteed access rights to West Berlin
  • Improved living conditions for West Berliners
• Basic Treaty between East and West Germany (1972) normalized relations
  • Mutual recognition of sovereignty
  • Increased economic and cultural exchanges
• Fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 accelerated reunification process
  • Mass demonstrations in East Germany led to political changes
  • "Two Plus Four" negotiations involving both German states and World War II Allies
• Official reunification achieved on October 3, 1990
  • Incorporation of East German states into Federal Republic of Germany
  • Economic and social challenges of integrating two different systems

European Integration Advancements

• European Economic Community (EEC) expansion occurred alongside easing tensions
• United Kingdom, Ireland, and Denmark joined EEC in 1973
  • Expanded common market and increased economic integration
  • Strengthened Western European cooperation
• Single European Act (1986) revitalized European integration
  • Set goal for creation of single market by 1992
  • Increased powers of European Parliament
• Maastricht Treaty (1992) established European Union
  • Created framework for political and economic union
  • Introduced concept of European citizenship
• Brandt's Nobel Peace Prize awarded in 1971 for Ostpolitik efforts
  • Recognized contribution to easing East-West tensions
  • Highlighted importance of dialogue and cooperation in international relations