The termination of the Cold War at the end of the 1980’s is a turning point in the twentieth century as much as it is in the history of humankind. A transformation with vast global ramifications is taking shape. Global balances once more overturned, are being re-established. Although the “new world order” that many talk about has yet to be clearly defined, its basic components have more or less become visible; democracy, supremacy of law, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, adoption of liberal economic practices and peaceful settlement of disputes.