Mitrany's functionalism, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and the development of safeguards against the proliferation of nuclear weapons 1945-1975

Imber, Mark Frederick (1981) Mitrany's functionalism, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and the development of safeguards against the proliferation of nuclear weapons 1945-1975. University of Southampton, Doctoral Thesis.

Record type: Thesis (Doctoral)

Abstract

Mitrany's Functionalism is a theory of international politics which advocates the creation of inter-govermental organisations to supercede certain responsibilities of the State, and to promote the renunciation of the use of force in international relations, through demonstrating the benefits of international co-operation. This study focuses upon the pragmatic basis of Functionalism by emphasising its a-priori reliance upon the consent of, and control by, the States involved in the development of Functional co-operation. After a thorough critical examination, Mitrany's argument is reduced to five propositions concerning the foundation, control and development of intergovermental organisations, their available sanctions and contribution to building a 'working peace system'. The case study of the I.A.E.A. establishes six criteria for the evaluation of 'safeguards' against nuclear proliferation. A study of multi-lateral diplomacy in the period 1945-57 examines the foundation of the I.A.E.A., with particular attention to the limitations placed upon 'the Agency's mandate. A textual analysis of the Agency's Statute and numerous 'safeguards' systems' reveals the gradual and controlled extension of the Agency's competence. The case study concludes with a critical, technical evaluation of the 'NPT safeguards'. This thesis concludes that the case study confirms the proposition relating to the foundation of inter-govermental organisations. With qualifications concerning the primary role of State goverments, the propositions relating to control and development are partly confirmed. The proposition relating to sanctions is refuted. The final proposition concerning the reduction in the use of force between States engaged in Functional co-operation is cautiously endorsed, with the suggestion that the development of inter-govermental organisations, and the reduction in the use of force between States are mutually reinforcing processes, relying upon the political initiatives of those States participating in them.

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