Diplomatic Crosscurrents: Southeastern Europe's Balancing Act between the Main Foreign Powers

Abstract

This study aims to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on Southeastern Europe's diplomatic relations with the dominant foreign power in the region. It provides a novel perspective on how Southeastern European countries strategically navigate their diplomatic ties to either maintain or challenge regional stability in unpredictable global and regional contexts. By expanding upon the understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by these countries in balancing their relationships and in some cases avoiding overreliance on any single global power, this study builds upon prior research in the field.

To capture practical and evidence of alignments, this study employs a qualitative methodology. It observes how historical representations influence diplomatic and political discourses/approaches of key political figures in Southeastern European countries. Case studies are utilized to provide in-depth insights into how states in the region navigate diplomatic crosscurrents and align with specific interests based on geopolitical lines.

The key findings of this study highlight the nuanced strategies employed by certain Southeastern European countries to advance their regional interests and ambitions while managing relationships with both Western and Eastern powers. At the same time, maintaining a delicate equilibrium is emphasized as crucial for regional stability and economic development. The thorough research and high-quality analysis presented in this paper provide valuable insights on lesser-explored aspect of how specific countries in the region strategically leverage their diplomatic ties based on historical representations and into the complexities of maintaining stability in Southeastern Europe. The implications of this study extend to academics, researchers, and foreign policy experts, offering a deeper understanding of the diplomatic dynamics and future perspectives for policy decision informing in Southeastern Europe.