The Treaty of Paris: Re: Re: Demilitarisation of the Aland Islands

» John_Barr - Re: Re: Demilitarisation of the Aland Islands

In response to Re: Demilitarisation of the Aland Islands posted by John_Barr:Graham Robins wrote:

Dear John,

Many thanks for a rapid and comprehensive reply. This is all very interesting from a local (Aland) perspective, though both the destruction of Bomarsund and the demilitarisation were, relatively speaking, minor elements of the Crimean War. The international dimension is a bit more relevant when considering Aland's role in modern politics, where Aland is often cited as a model in the solution of regional conflict. The recent solution to the problems in Aceh Province, Indonesia, was proposed by a Finn, using the 'Aland model' as an example. Our Peace Institute has even been used as a discussion forum by representatives from the Ukraine and Crimea (a touch of historical irony) in their attempts to resolve autonomy problems. It seems to me that events surrounding the 150th anniversary of the Paris Treaty being concluded would create a suitable arena for this matter to be thoroughly investigated. i have also had contact with Andrew Lambert, King's College, London, with regard to this question. His view is that the fifth point was more a pragmatic attempt to ensure that Russia's war losses matched the expectations that the allies had had at the beginning of the war, and the effort that had gone into the war - perhaps also to more clearly define who had won and who had lost.

I hope to be able to establish contact with Trevor Royle and put the question directly to him. I hope that you do not mind if I contact you again in this matter.

Best regards,

Graham

-- posted by John_Barr