Issue Brief: Deterrence and Self-Restraint in the Nordics

Having the longest direct NATO-Russia border, security in Northern Europe is of particular relevance again. This Issue Brief lays out current approaches that Scandinavian states take on balancing deterrence, reassurance and military self-restraint in their region. In addition to deterrence through strong domestic defense capabilities, unilateral policies of restraint have traditionally characterized approaches of long time NATO members Norway and Denmark. The issue Brief highlights recent developments in this approach, including defense cooperation agreements with the United States and evolving military strategies in response to increased perceived Russian threat. It concludes by providing some background for a broader reflection on the future of arms control in the current geopolitical climate.