"Europe" and "security" are two of the most frequently utilized words discussed in international relations. Although these words may appear self-explanatory, to date, no unified concept exists for this topic. As a military officer and researcher, on a daily basis I experience how the world's leading officials, experts and researchers interpret European security and prioritize its elements differently. The appraisals, reasoning and viewpoints are often influenced by political, economic, cultural, historical, geographic and religious orientation or related factors. The basic dilemma of European security originates from this issue: the lack of common denominators and definitions affects not only the problem's approach, but its solution, as the outcome of negotiations and conferences conducted to resolve issues differ throughout Europe.

The study LTC Tibor Babos (Ph.D.) conducted helps minimize the differences, brings opposing points of view closer to one another and brings concepts closer to common denominators. Relying on his six-year research, through identifying the complexities of European security, he defines the five most important pillars. He not only systematizes the complex interdependence of European security, he also rationalizes and simplifies their understanding. In light of this thought, I recommend this book to every politician, expert and military officer involved in research on international contacts and political security in Europe.

General Béla Király (Ph.D.)