Definition

Noun: A system or principle for maintaining international peace and security through the collective action of a group of nations, typically involving mutual defense commitments against aggression.

Usage

The term is used primarily in the context of international relations and diplomacy. It describes a formal arrangement where the security of one member is considered the concern of all members, who agree to respond collectively to threats.

Examples

• The United Nations was founded on the principle of collective security.
• The alliance's effectiveness depends on a genuine commitment to collective security.
• Critics argue that the concept of collective security is difficult to implement in practice.

Advanced Usage

• "A collective security arrangement": A specific treaty or alliance based on this principle.
  • The North Atlantic Treaty is a collective security arrangement.
• "The collective security system": Refers to the institutional framework and rules governing the mutual defense pact.
  • The collective security system failed to prevent the outbreak of war.

Variants and Related Words

• Collective defense: A closely related term, often used interchangeably, though it can imply a more specific focus on military response to an attack on a member state.
• Mutual defense: A similar concept emphasizing the reciprocal nature of the security guarantee.

Synonyms

• Mutual protection
• Common defense

Related Phrases

• "Article 5" (NATO): The specific clause in the North Atlantic Treaty that embodies the collective security principle, stating that an attack on one member is an attack on all.
  • For the first time in its history, NATO invoked Article 5 after the 9/11 attacks.
• "To uphold collective security": To support and act in accordance with the principle.
  • The member states pledged to uphold collective security.

Noun

1. a system for international peace