Neoclassical Realism and Small State Behavior: Understanding Kosovo’s Foreign Policy

Authors : Zafer Sağlam

Pages : 109-122

View : 47 | Download : 116

Publication Date : 2024-12-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Despite recognition from the United States and many Western allies, Kosovo is not yet a member of the European Council or the United Nations. Seeing the Kosovo\\\'s case through the lens of neoclassical realism and small state concept, this article highlights the importance of the domestic political system and leadership image in the foreign policy making of Kosovo. It argues that Kosovo\\\'s political elite, affected by nationalism, largely shapes the country\\\'s foreign policy. The “small state” emphasized here is broader in meaning than the “weak state” used in realism and was attempted to be used as an analytical tool in the international relations discipline after the 1960s, when small states emerged in the system. The aricle explores the behavioral patterns associated with small states and notes Kosovo\\\'s inclination towards hedging behavior and questions the effectiveness of this strategy amidst the uncertainties and risks arise in its foreign policy.
Keywords : Kosova, Neoklasik Realizm, Küçük Devletler, Riskten Korunma (Hedging), Yumuşak Dengeleme