Neutrality as the Basis of Statehood and Foreign Policy of the Republic of Ireland

The article is devoted to the analysis of the phenomenon of Irish sovereignty as the foundation of statehood and foreign policy strategy of the Republic of Ireland in the context of global political transformations of the 20th–21st centuries. It is argued that the policy of neutrality of the Republic of Ireland has a rich history. It helps the country to avoid participation in military conflicts and influences international events. Ireland is not a member of military alliances and mutual defense agreements, which allows it to maintain independence. The EU and international partners respect the sovereignty and neutrality of Ireland, which is confirmed by legal guarantees provided in 2009. Ireland’s decision on neutrality was made after the struggle for independence and tense relations with the UK. Commitment to neutrality is not permanent, and its meaning continues to be reconsidered. Ireland’s increased participation in peacekeeping missions and integration into the EU have drawn attention to its neutrality. However, some aspects of EU integration raise concerns, especially the EU’s common foreign and security policy. It is shown that Irish neutrality has been the subject of debate and different interpretations since its inception. Ireland has traditionally followed a policy of neutrality, which is a historical tradition, not an obligation, as in the case of Austria. The policy of non-intervention in international relations was formed before the creation of the Irish Republic in 1948, when Ireland left the British Commonwealth. This decision was due to the desire of the Irish people to avoid involvement in British military conflicts, as well as the desire to gain independence and sovereignty from British rule. Irish neutrality is not enshrined in the constitution and has no official interpretation, but it is felt and real. After centuries of political oppression and repression by Britain, the Irish sought independence and self-determination. The idea was to pursue a policy different from the British in order to emphasize the uniqueness of the country. With the outbreak of World War II, neutrality began to be associated with the struggle for freedom. In the context of global political transformations of the 21st century, Proponents of the idea that it is impossible to maintain neutrality argue that the involvement of the Republic of Ireland in international relations excludes the possibility of maintaining neutrality. However, this approach does not take into account the changing geopolitical situation and the opinion of the Irish, who continue to consider their country neutral. It has been established that the Republic of Ireland is actively involved in international politics, being a member of the UN and a participant in the NATO Partnership for Peace program. It allowed the United States to use one of its airports for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Irish forces participated in UN peacekeeping missions. The liveliest discussions concern Ireland’s relationship with the EU. It has been proven that the Irish are worried about losing independence and neutrality, despite a positive attitude towards EU membership. Fear of losing sovereignty and neutrality affects public opinion. The position of most politicians has changed, not coinciding with public opinion. The last real supporter of neutrality was I. de Valera, who presented this concept as official. Currently, the vast majority of Irish people support neutrality.