Preparing for Helsinki
Whilst the significance of the Final Act in ending communism in Eastern Europe has been debated, what is clear is that there would have been no Human Dimension in the Final Act were it not for the policies pursued, and the tactics employed, by the West at the MPT. With the agenda and procedures fixed by the MPT the Soviets never fully regained the diplomatic initiative, despite several attempts, during the Conference proper. In this sense, the pre-conference talks were key to shaping the provisions of the Final Act—the highpoint of détente in Europe. It is impossible to appreciate what was achieved at Helsinki without an understanding of the preparatory negotiations. Richard Smith
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