Small States, Great Power? Gaining Influence Through Intrinsic, Derivative, and Collective Power: Table 1

Abstract

asymmetrical relationships from the perspective of the weaker state. 2 This article proposes three forms of power that are available and particularly relevant to small states: particular-intrinsic, derivative, and collective power. All states, small or large, can either try to exploit their internal resources or turn to other states. However, because small states, by definition, lack more traditional forms of power, they must specialize in how they employ their resources and relationships. Small states depend more heavily on external options, whether a special relationship with a great power or other small states. This taxonomy explains the three forms of power according to their base, scope, means, and amount (Dahl 1957), which connects small states to broader debates around power in IR.The first section of the article examines the changing concepts of power employed in the study of small states. To some extent, these reflect broader debates about power in IR, though resources and compulsory power dominated until recently. The article then develops the taxonomy mentioned above by specifying the base, scope, means, and amount of the different types of power, and explaining these in relation to diverse concepts of power. In conclusion, the article addresses how these categories are particularly relevant to small states. Many small states are thriving in a world that is more open and democratic, where the threat of force has receded somewhat and has proven less effective. Non-traditional facets of power are central for states that lack coercive instruments, but they are increasingly relevant for all states. Concepts of Power in Studies of Small StatesPower remains both a central and contested term in International Relations. Guzzini (2005:495) argues that "the meaning of power is always embedded in a theoretical context." That is no less true in the case of power and the small state. As Berenskoetter (2007) notes, the concept of power in IR has been dominated by realismat the very least, the debate has occurred on realists' terms. Defined by their very weakness, small states struggled to gain respect in IR, a field long focused on the international competition for power. Goetschel (1998:13) colorfully writes: "Small states were seen as fragile creatures in the rough sea of international relations.They were internally well suited for democratic regimes but externally helpless and constantly 2 Elsewhere, I have suggested the terms "preponderant power" and "hypo-power" to describe states in asymmetrical relationships (Long 2016). Here, I continue to use the more common term "small state" in an attempt to connect with that literature.

Bargaining Power at the Negotiation Table and Beyond

“…Panke (2012) specifies some of these institutional structures, such as chairing meetings and setting the agenda, that allow states to influence the outcome of a negotiation. Relatedly, small states often band together in coalitions and then vote in a block; thus, while small states lack bargaining power individually, they are able to have significant power collectively (Long 2017). Coalition building is particularly important in negotiations that rely on majority voting because they have the numerical advantages that they need to successfully advocate for their policy preferences (Panke 2012).…”

Avskrekking som element i cybersikkerhetsstrategi fra et småstatsperspektiv

“…For småstater vil deltakelse i organisasjonen balansere den normfokuserte politikken med det som i praksis blir en allianseinnretning som kan sikre konkrete nasjonale interesser på kortere sikt (Long, 2016). En balanse mellom det tilsynelatende idealpolitiske og det realpolitiske er en tilnaerming vi allerede kjenner fra norsk politikk, strategi og doktriner (se f.eks.…”

The Role of Small States in Promoting International Security: The Case of Mongolia

“…Although it has not drawn much notice, the potential role of small states is also increasing as a result of growing interdependence. This is reflected in the increase in the literature on international relations, politics and the role of medium and small states (Ingebritsen et al 2006;Long 2017).…”