Preface
Foreign and security policy have long been removed from the political pressures that influence other areas of policymaking. This has led to a tendency to separate the analytical levels of the individual and the collective. Using Lacanian theory, which views the subject as ontologically incomplete and desiring a perfect identity which is realised in fantasies, or narrative scenarios, this book shows that the making of foreign policy is a much more complex process. Emotions and affect play an important role, even where ‘hard’ security issues, such as the use of military force, are concerned. Eberle constructs a new theoretical framework for analysing foreign policy by capturing the interweaving of both discursive and affective aspects in policymaking. He uses this framework to explain Germany’s often contradictory foreign policy towards the Iraq crisis of 2002/2003, and the emotional, even existential, public debate that accompanied it. This book adds to ongoing theoretical debates in International Political Sociology and Critical Security Studies and will be required reading for all scholars working in these areas
Introduction: Making liberal internationalism great again?
At a time when liberal internationalism and institutions of multilateral cooperation are being dealt almost daily blows, this special issue revisits the notion and practice of middle power liberal internationalism. The introduction suggests that while liberal internationalism is far from dead, the challenges are serious and multiple. Reflecting on the seven essays contained in the volume, it argues that the biggest challenge for a future liberal internationalism is not to double-down on its normative virtues, but critically to reflect on how it can be retooled to respond to new challenges.
Strategic stability, new technologies and the future of nuclear disarmament in Asia
This project examines the main obstacles to nuclear arms control and disarmament, focusing on Asia. ...
Reforms in Uzbekistan and new dynamics in Central Asia
What is the potential impact of President Mirziyoyev’s reform agenda for regional dynamics in Central Asia and beyond?
Turkey’s Syria policy and the refugee question
How is Turkey’s foreign policy shaped in the new presidential system? And how is Turkey’s Syria policy influenced by and influencing the refugee crisis?
Theory seminar: Brokered safety – labour recruitment and migration assistance in the Mekong region
In this theory seminar, Dr. Sverre Molland will talk about the importance of intermediaries and mediation for work recruitment in the Mekong region. He will also talk about how this can be seen as an integral part of government steering instruments, and as something aid organizations can benefit from in their "safe-migration" practice aimed at labour migration.
Revitalizing Transatlantic Maritime Security
This project will generate concrete policy proposals, particularly in the maritime domain, and look at ways for the United States and Europe, and Norway in particular, to adapt their m...
Governing oceans in an age of global shifts
How can we ensure that the oceans are governed in a secure and sustainable way? How can coastal states like Norway use the oceans to increase their economic growth? Welcome to this seminar and launch of NUPI’s new Center for Ocean Governance.
NUPI's Russia Conference 2019: The Return of Russia – Identity and Foreign Policy
During Putin’s years in power, Russia has made a comeback as a European great power with global ambitions. What are the Kremlin’s long-term foreign policy objectives? How does Russian self-understandings affect this policy? And what implications may this have for Russia’s neighbors, including for Norway?