ABSTRACT
The main object of an alliance is to increase the partners’ ability to resist aggression. It functions as a coalition when attacking, but also serves a deterrent purpose once the promise of mutual assistance becomes known. (see 111, 168, 238, 239)
853 – No alliance is indefinite: sometimes States reach agreement in order to attack, conquer and share, because of the advantage they derive from joining forces. That was the plan for the Berlin-Rome Axis before the Second World War. Today, such an objective would be contrary to the UN Charter and would thus remain secret. (see 114, 117)
854 – Modern civilisation with its technological complexity has multiplied and diversified the risks, especially internationally. These risks encourage States to act with prudence and make alliances unpredictable. This leads the Great Powers to maintain their independent tactics, which are therefore no longer ‘institutional’ in character. (see 334, 335, 1678)
855 – Aside from their immediate tactical concerns, rapprochement between some States can represent a more long-term community of interests: treaties entered into on this basis are among the wise manoeuvres that contribute to the balance of power and influence.2 One example is the tradition of seeking an ally at the enemy’s rear, which has been a theme of French policy on the continent of Europe for a thousand years. Other examples are pacts between powers united not only because their fears are the same, but because their interests also converge. (see 380, 844)
A rapprochement between nations naturally causes those it threatens to do the same: negotiation generates other negotiations. (see 945, 1700)
856 – An alliance is also the expression, in the diplomatic arena, of community of destiny, sentiment and culture between nations: though not governed by any particular pact, the long relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom could be so described.
