What is it about?
This article discusses the nature, opportunities and limitations of small state grand strategy. It identifies the similarities and differences between the grand strategies of small states and great powers and unpacks the nature of traditional defensive small state grand strategies hiding and shelter-seeking as well as more recent offensive, influence-seeking small state grand strategies under the heading of smart state strategy.
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Why is it important?
The article argues that while small state grand strategy remains tied to national security and is formulated in the shadow of great power interests, a changing security environment creates both the need and opportunity for small states to use their weakness instrumentally for maximizing interests. The likelihood of success depends on a pragmatic political culture and the willingness and ability to prioritize goals and means to utilize their nonthreatening small state status in “smart” or “entrepreneurial” policies.
Perspectives
Much literature focuses on the grand strategies of great powers, but small states have grand strategies too. Exploring these strategies allows us to understand how and why small states respond to great power politics and how they are likely to navigate international relations in peace and war.
Dr. Anders Wivel
University of Copenhagen
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: The Grand Strategies of Small States, September 2021, Oxford University Press (OUP),
DOI: 10.1093/oxfordhb/9780198840299.013.32.
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