The present paper addresses the issues involved in institutio nalizing the CSCE. It warns against abstract modelling and favours incrementalism based on the special characteristics of the CSCE process. Institutions should be tailored to func tional requirements. The author outlines eight overarching functions to be met by the political order in Europe. He proceeds to examine some of the current tensions in the CSCE system. Institutionalization will constitute an amalgamation of continuity and change. The author lists six characteristic traits of the CSCE continuity and posits a four point agenda for medium-term institution-building
