Speaker
Description
This paper examines how small states adapt their defense strategies in a shifting global order shaped by intensifying great power competition, emerging regionalisms, and evolving security dynamics. It argues that small states enhance their defense posture through a mix of hard and soft balancing, shelter-seeking, and diversified security partnerships. Using Greece as a case study, the paper explores how it navigates regional tensions with Turkey while balancing ties with key allies such as the EU, the U.S., and France. Through defense agreements, strategic investments, and regional minilateral initiatives, Greece illustrates how small states can leverage multiple partnerships to bolster security and status. Despite growing security pressures, small states also gain agency through networked cooperation and strategic diversification. The findings contribute to the broader discussion on small state security, demonstrating how adaptive defense strategies can mitigate vulnerabilities in an unpredictable international environment.
| What discipline or branch of humanities or social sciences do you identify yourself with? | International Relations |
|---|---|
| If you are submitting an Open Panel proposal, have you included all four abstracts in attachment? | No, I am submitting a Closed Panel abstract |
| Are you a PhD student or early-career researcher? | No |
