National Security Doctrine

Definition

The national security doctrine is a political and military strategy that prioritizes the defense of a nation's sovereignty and stability, often justifying the use of repressive measures against perceived threats, including leftist movements and social unrest. It emerged prominently in Latin America during the Cold War, linking domestic policies to global anti-communism efforts while promoting military involvement in governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The national security doctrine became particularly influential in Latin America during the 1960s and 1970s as countries sought to counter perceived communist threats.
2. Under this doctrine, military governments often justified human rights abuses and authoritarian measures as necessary for maintaining stability and protecting national interests.
3. The U.S. supported several Latin American regimes that adopted this doctrine, providing military aid and training to ensure compliance with American anti-communist policies.
4. The doctrine contributed to the rise of numerous military regimes in Latin America, as leaders believed they could justify their rule through national security concerns.
5. Critics argue that the national security doctrine led to a cycle of violence and repression, undermining democracy and civil liberties in affected countries.

Review Questions

• How did the national security doctrine influence government policies in Latin America during the Cold War?
  • The national security doctrine heavily influenced government policies in Latin America by prioritizing the defense against perceived communist threats. This led many governments to adopt authoritarian measures, such as censorship, political repression, and human rights violations, under the justification of maintaining stability. As a result, military regimes gained support for their repressive actions as they framed them as necessary for national security.
• Evaluate the role of U.S. foreign policy in shaping the implementation of national security doctrines in Latin American countries.
  • U.S. foreign policy played a critical role in shaping national security doctrines in Latin America by promoting anti-communism as a central tenet. Through initiatives like military aid, training programs, and direct intervention, the U.S. supported various regimes that aligned with its interests. This support not only legitimized authoritarian practices but also encouraged governments to adopt similar repressive tactics to ensure alignment with U.S. strategic goals.
• Assess the long-term consequences of the national security doctrine on democracy and human rights in Latin America.
  • The long-term consequences of the national security doctrine have been profound and detrimental to democracy and human rights in Latin America. By fostering environments where military intervention was seen as acceptable, it normalized human rights abuses and stifled democratic movements. As a legacy, many countries still grapple with issues related to political violence, societal division, and struggles for accountability concerning past atrocities linked to this doctrine.

Related terms

Cold War: A period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and the United States from the late 1940s to the early 1990s, influencing global politics and military strategies worldwide.

Counterinsurgency: Military or political activities designed to combat insurgency or rebellion, focusing on both armed conflict and winning the support of the civilian population.

Military Coup: The sudden overthrow of a government by military forces, often justified by claims of restoring order or protecting national security.