These days, people often say that if you want peace, you must prepare for war – the old Latin saying si vis pacem, para bellum.
It means that if you are strong and prepared for war, others are less likely to attack you.
Enjoy access to all articles and 25 years of archives, comment and gift articles. Become a member for as low as €1,75 per week.
Already a member? LoginCaroline de Gruyter is a Europe correspondent for the Dutch newspaper NRC. She is also a columnist for Foreign Policy and De Standaard. This piece was adapted from a recent column for NRC.
Caroline de Gruyter is a Europe correspondent for the Dutch newspaper NRC. She is also a columnist for Foreign Policy and De Standaard. This piece was adapted from a recent column for NRC.