Can Expanding Europe Lead to Permanent Peace?

By Veeha Bhatt (Del of CNN international)

Now that Napoleon is back, throwing Europe into utter chaos again, deliberations held at the Congress of Vienna couldn't be of more importance. Two very different groups have emerged during the Congress. One group advocates' expansion as a way of re-establishing order and the other advocating diplomacy in order to attain stability and peace among European states.

At the Congress of Vienna, delegates argued about which option was the correct course of action. The delegates who advocate expansion argue that it is essential in order to prevent greater chaos. The delegates who advocate diplomacy, such as the British delegation, see expansionism as a pathway to European dominion by large countries which would further sow the seeds of discord and conflict. By advocating expansion, the supporters are actually spreading disorder under the guise of order, and by advocating diplomacy, the peace-loving countries are seeking order through justice, and equality.

CNN International thinks that while Europe requires stability, this stability should not, or cannot, occur at the expense of others. Indeed expansion may be a quick fix, but it will most certainly present a more complex situation than the one currently prevailing. Diplomacy, though less immediate, will produce a far more stable Europe in the long term.

Thus, the Congress of Vienna is not only dealing with present matters pertaining to Napoleon's presence; they are also shaping the future of Europe for decades to come and it is our sincere hope that they realize that with diplomacy as their means, a better future for Europe can certainly be attained and it will be a future that will bring with it lasting stability and peace.