The project investigates the theoretical genesis and the normative and operational consequences of the proposition that militaries, particularly those in western liberal democracies, can and should be used for broader cosmopolitan purposes in the pursuit of peace and security (pax cosmopolitica). It brings together theory and practice to provide a robust framework for understanding the opportunities for and the limitations upon cosmopolitan militaries and cosmopolitan law enforcement, for developing more appropriate military deployment strategies and for assessing the contribution of cosmopolitan thought to the goals of peace and security.

A cosmopolitan approach is motivated by the view that humanity forms a single moral community and so takes into account the security of individuals and communities as well as states. It is committed to democratic and humane forms of global governance that are based on dialogue and consent rather than power and force and in which those who are most vulnerable and marginalised are empowered to refuse, renegotiate and contest. These arrangements and concerns are embedded in and supported by a growing body of cosmopolitan law which, cosmopolitan scholars argue, requires the backing of coercive force. This cosmopolitan force will be based on military structures and capabilities which are internationalised, democratic and accountable, and on values in which the primary loyalty of the cosmopolitan soldier is to humanity and the international community rather than to any individual state.