It is an architecture of synergy rather than hierarchy. But while one could argue that the basic institutional structures for our security are thus in place, I see today a need to re-examine fundamentally the concepts around which our security has been organised. These concepts were of little value to the negotiators that came together here in this city 350 years ago. We cannot blame them. But we would have ourselves to blame if we still ignored these key principles today.
Humanity means orienting our policies to serve the needs of man.
Indeed, one could argue that a security policy which is not constructed around the needs of man and humanity will risk the worst fate - being ineffectual. That is indeed borne out by the narrow-minded nationalistic policies that have led to so many wars in Europe. Most of the conflicts we see today are between or within states that disregard fundamental human needs. It is thus no accident that the last years have seen an increase in the demand for humanitarian actions. Yet despite the obvious need, we have found ourselves restrained by the principle of non-interference.