The Helsinki Effect

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The book explores the significant impact of human rights norms established by the Helsinki Final Act on the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe. Daniel Thomas argues that these norms not only transformed East-West relations but also provided a foundation for opposition movements, undermining one-party Communist rule. By analyzing various sources, he presents a Constructivist perspective that challenges Realist theories, demonstrating how these international standards played a crucial role in the peaceful democratic transitions of 1989 and the conclusion of the Cold War.