Western Europe is currently in the midst of its longest-ever period of peace in history. Several generations of Europeans were born and raised in peacetime under the umbrella of NATO and the EU, which has made wars in Europe seem unlikely and irrational – like things that happen in faraway, fragile places. This has unfortunately made the West dangerously complacent and unprepared to predict, prevent and respond to wars.
Back to the future of violent conflict
This is a matter of concern, as nearby in Eastern Europe or the Middle East, peace and order seems to be on shaky ground. Even in regions often seen as unstable or mired in ethnic…
