The Construction of Status in Security Politics: Rules, Comparisons and Second-Guessing Collective Beliefs
Tapping into international relations status’ research’s extended lineage, this chapter makes the case for a thick constructivist account of international status dynamics that makes the construction of rules and comparisons central to analysis. Drawing upon the work of Robert Gilpin and Nicholas Onuf, the chapter’s approach enables the exploration of how the rules governing status competitions emerge, why some rules become agreed upon and others contested, and the consequences of these processes of rule formation. While this framework requires a gestalt switch for conventional status research, this chapter argues that it is possible to do so while remaining consistent with status research’s core definition of status. The value of the framework is illustrated via a case study of how the rules of the nuclear status competition emerged and solidified over the course of the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks between the Soviet Union and United States (1969–79).
Will a more humble NATO be a stronger NATO?
NATO’s narrative about itself has changed. However, this narrative is unlikely to gain much support elsewhere in the world, claim the authors of this op-ed in Aftenposten. NATO turns 75 and describes itself as "the world’s most successful military alliance". Like all other viable international actors, NATO must be able to look itself in the mirror and critically reflect on its own actions to maintain legitimacy both among its own populations and in the wider world, and, if necessary, adjust its course. This article, based on a longer analysis published in the journal Contemporary Security Policy, is an attempt to contribute to this reflection.
Digital Borders, Global Ties: The EU’s Dual Quest for Cybersecurity and Digital Sovereignty
The EU's approach to ‘digital sovereignty’ and cybersecurity addresses concerns about geopolitical instability, data ownership, and control over critical digital infrastructure. This policy brief highlights the EU’s ambiguous claim to digital sovereignty, which is not only about controlling the internal digital space but also about navigating external dependencies. As the EU seeks to reduce reliance on external actors and increase autonomy in its digital space, it must navigate the risks of isolation from global markets. This creates a delicate balance between strengthening (cyber)security and fostering international cooperation. The forthcoming EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) is illustrative of this tension; while the CRA aims to strengthen digital resilience and autonomy, it underscores the need for the EU to protect its digital borders whilst integrated in the global digital economy. This push for autonomy must account for international interdependencies, especially in cybersecurity, where external partnerships remain crucial. Ultimately, the EU must adopt a nuanced approach that aligns ambitions toward digital sovereignty with the realities of an interconnected world.
The Impact of the US Presidential Election on European Security
In cooperation with The Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies (RUSI) in London and the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, NUPI is co-hosting a briefing on the impact of the US presidential election result on European security. This event is part of the Transatlantic Security research project between the three parties.
Climate, peace and security in the US and beyond
How can policy and discourses in climate, peace and security be compared across widely different contexts? How is climate change tackled as a pote...
Changing transatlantic relations – and what it means for Europe
In a more uncertain world and with war in Europe, securing a strong relationship with their traditional partner and ally, the United States (US), is more important than ever for Europeans. Yet, Europe is facing a reality where there is a real possibility that transatlantic relations may be severely weakening. This European policy analysis explores ongoing changes in the transatlantic relationship, what this tells us about its future direction, and what this implies for Europe. It discusses what a second Trump, or a Harris, presidency might imply, the challenges facing European security and defence, and what must be done to address them. The analysis finds that extensive networks, trade relations, and interdependencies continue to make the transatlantic relationship the strongest interregional relationship in the world. However, domestic changes in the US and a changing geopolitical reality with the US prioritizing China over Europe mean that the transatlantic relationship is weaker than before. The future of European security and defence depends on its ability to increase its support for Ukraine, to strengthen its own security in NATO – in the EU and in closer cooperation between them – and to keep the US as close as possible.
USA after the election: Consequences for the Nordics and the geopolitical landscape
On November 14, researchers from five leading foreign policy institutes in the Nordic region will gather to analyze the consequences of the U.S. election.