ABSTRACT
The principle of inviolability and integrity of state territory is one of the fundamental principles of international law. This is a relatively new principle of international law, which became finally and firmly established with adoption of the UN Charter in 1945, but the process of development of its content is continuing, and the various elements of this principle have been variously articulated in international law. The term “confidence-building measures” proper was given legal substance by the Final Act of the 1975 Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe, where it was used in Section 2 of the Document on Confidence-Building Measures and Certain Aspects of Security and Disarmament. Limitation of military forces and arms in border areas constitutes an important measure for preventing a surprise attack. Plans calling for the establishment of zones of limited arms and military forces have been contained in a number of initiatives, especially in the last ten years. Corresponding precedents also exist in international law.
