The article delves into the timeless relevance of Immanuel Kant’s seminal work “Perpetual Peace” published in 1795, exploring its resonance with the Helsinki Final Act of 1975 and their collective embodiment of the Enlightenment ideals. By juxtaposing Kant’s philosophical insights with the diplomatic framework established in the Helsinki Final Act, this study seeks to elucidate the enduring influence of Enlightenment principles on modern international relations. Through a comparative analysis, it examines how both “Perpetual Peace” and the Helsinki Final Act aspire towards the establishment of a harmonious global order based on principles of equality, liberty, and justice. Furthermore, the paper investigates the evolving interpretation and application of these principles in contemporary discourse, shedding light on their significance in addressing contemporary challenges to peace and security. By tracing the intellectual lineage from Kant’s Enlightenment philosophy to the diplomatic endeavours encapsulated in the Helsinki Final Act, this study underscores the enduring relevance of Enlightenment ideals in shaping the trajectory of international relations and fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding among nations.
DOI and PDF-Download: 10.25365/phaidra.474
