The main aim of this paper is to analyze the aims of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) in conducting the Treaty of Moscow as the core of "Ostpolitik" and assess the role of the pursuit of German reunification behind increased cooperation of the FRG with the USSR. In order to answer these questions, I will focus on the main aims desired by concluding the Soviet-German treaty and the origins of Ostpolitik.
The paper will be divided into three main parts. Firstly, I will give a brief introduction on the "Neue Ostpolitk" under Brandt and construe the Treaty of Moscow as core agreement of this policy, as it was the first official agreement, which adhered to the will of improved relations with the USSR. In the second part I will further examine the underlying vision of Willy Brandt in pursuing Ostpolitik and how he presented this vision. In 1971, Brandt was awarded with the Nobel Peace Prize for his attempt to reconcile tensions between East and West.
With regard to this accomplishment, I will analyze and interpret a speech held by the chancellor on the occasion of receiving the Nobel Peace Prize to disclose on how Brandt used the narrative of European stability to promote his pursuit of German reunification. Ultimately, I will coalesce my findings and try to answer whether the treaty, as core agreement of Ostpolitik, can be seen as just an atmospheric success , a materialization of nationalist aims or as decisive step in the process of reconciling tensions within Europe and advancing détente in Europe.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- New Ostpolitk under Willy Brandt
- The Treaty of Moscow
- Willy Brandt's Liberal Peace Concept
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper analyzes the goals of West Germany in signing the Treaty of Moscow, which was a key part of "Ostpolitik." It examines the role of German reunification in the increased cooperation between West Germany and the Soviet Union. The paper also explores the origins and underlying vision of Ostpolitik, as well as the impact of the treaty on European détente.
- The goals of West Germany in signing the Treaty of Moscow
- The role of German reunification in Ostpolitik
- The origins and underlying vision of Ostpolitik
- The impact of the Treaty of Moscow on European détente
- The reception and criticism of the Treaty of Moscow in Germany and internationally
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: Introduces the Treaty of Moscow and its significance as a symbol of Soviet-West German rapprochement. It highlights the treaty's role in advancing détente in Europe and the context of the "Neue Ostpolitik" under Willy Brandt.
- New Ostpolitk under Willy Brandt: Explains the origins and aims of the Ostpolitik, which represented a transformation in German foreign policy. It discusses the abandonment of the Hallstein Doctrine and the pursuit of new relationships with Eastern Europe. This section highlights the revolutionary nature of the policy, attempting to end hostilities with the Soviet Union and its allies through agreements that renounced force and recognized de facto borders.
- The Treaty of Moscow: Focuses on the signing of the Treaty of Moscow in 1970 and its controversial aspects, particularly the recognition of the two German states and the post-war Oder-Neisse border. The chapter explores the differing perspectives on the treaty, with some viewing it as a setback to German unification, while others saw it as a step towards improved relations and détente.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The primary keywords and focus topics of this work include Ostpolitik, German reunification, Treaty of Moscow, Willy Brandt, Soviet Union, détente, Cold War, Hallstein Doctrine, and European relations. This paper examines the historical context and implications of the Treaty of Moscow in relation to these themes.
- Quote paper
- Alexandra Kovalcikova (Author), 2019, What role did the pursuit of German reunification play in the drafting of the Treaty of Moscow? The policy of Ostpolitik, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/503653