The Perestroika Era and International Law

This insightful book explores the Perestroika era (1985–1991), considered to be one of the most eventful periods in modern history, and in particular the ways in which it affected the Soviet approach to international law.

After assessing the reforms introduced by the Perestroika era, Kaj Hobér outlines the concept of ‘The New Thinking’ and its impact on Soviet international law as the guiding principle for the reorientation of Soviet foreign policy. The book examines specific aspects of public international law during this period, namely key sources of international law, peaceful coexistence, the use of force, border disputes, human rights approaches and foreign economic relations, as well as the dissolution of the USSR. Hobér argues that the Perestroika period represents a watershed in the Soviet approach to international law, and that the events continue to cast their shadow over Russia’s legal, political and sociocultural developments today.



The Perestroika Era and International Law is a valuable resource for scholars specialising in public international law and legal history. Its analysis of the interrelation between Soviet international law, foreign policy and sociocultural policy will also be of interest to those working in foreign relations, politics and public policy.