Re-Conceptualization of Soft Security and Turkey's Civilian Contributors to International Security, Summer 2004

The mix and method regarding how hard and soft security policies are implemented in times of crisis and conflict are still contentious issues. There is a substantive amount of discussion among scholars and experts on how to make the best use of these policies. The common denominator in such discussions seems to be that the elements of soft security are of a rather preventive nature and best employed to reinstitute stability and introduce normalcy in afflicted areas.  The author argues that through enhancing cooperation and dialogue, as well as extending financial assistance and development programs, the aim now is to neutralize the potential violent nature of soft threats and prevent them from becoming hard threats in the long run. He also discusses Turkey’s contribution to international security both in hard and soft terms in a vast geography ranging from the Balkans to Afghanistan.

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