ABSTRACT
Confidence-building measures (CBM) are worth pursuing, but there are many ways in which they may be ineffective, or even counterproductive. While most CBMs are still recommended primarily for use in the military field, it is often unclear whether the measures are seen, and used, primarily as security-enhancing mechanisms, or as tools to enhance cooperation and work towards better inter-state relations. CBMs are pre-dominantly concerned with perception and usually do not deal with the root causes of problems. Selecting a CBM policy implies embracing the status quo. Perhaps the most important issue raised by CBMs is that the measures begin to be emphasised to the detriment of other diplomatic or security initiatives. CBMs are beginning to be seen not as stepping stones to prominent objectives, but as necessary prerequisites. CBMs can provide a useful framework for initiating and promoting dialogue between states, while also offering specific opportunities to tackle issues of mutual concern.
