Middle and Great Powers in Global Politics

States that hold the most power, military, economic and political influence on the global stage, often recognized by their formal membership in international structures like the UN Security Council.

The United States, China, Russia, France and the United Kingdom, recognized for their significant military and economic capabilities, and their formal position in the UN Security Council.

A significant shift in the dominance of global power, often occurring through warfare, where a declining hegemon is replaced by a rising one.

A nation that holds a preeminent position of power and influence in the international system.

The policy implemented by a country to regulate inbound international migration.

The US government's plan to protect the nation's security at home and abroad, promote economic growth and competitiveness, and lead through balanced global engagement.

A form of foreign policy approach where the US collaborates with other countries to address global problems.

A situation where a country's dominant position in the world is questioned or doubted by other countries.

A form of government characterized by democratic principles and institutions.

States that have a significant presence and influence in their regional area. They act as good international citizens, using diplomacy to promote peace and stability, and catalyze, facilitate, and manage international efforts.

These powers are defined by their capabilities and relative power, including territory size, economic strength, and military resources.

These powers are characterized by their behavior on the world stage, acting as good international citizens, mediators, catalysts, facilitators, managers, and followers.

A country that has a substantial and enduring presence in its geographic region, influencing political, economic, and social processes within the broader area.

Possessing a considerable economic and military capacity compared to neighboring countries, enabling a country to assert its influence within the region.

Having historical and cultural importance as a civilization, contributing to the shape of regional and global norms and values.

Middle powers focus their ambitions on their region rather than world domination, seeking to maintain a sphere of influence within their geographic area.

The key difference between middle powers and great powers lies in their ambitions. Middle powers do not aim for world domination but seek to influence their regional sphere.

Countries that have experienced rapid economic development and rising global influence, potentially becoming future Great Powers.

A group of nations with a shared goal of regional cooperation and integration. Example: SADC (Southern African Development Community).

A state that has achieved greater global influence despite facing internal challenges. This can occur due to a strong foreign policy focus.

A state with limited territorial size, population and resources compared to other nations. They often face limitations in their foreign policy decision-making.

Countries with small size and limited resources may leverage a perceived lack of power as an excuse to avoid action in international affairs.

Small states, despite lacking significant power, can still influence international events through diplomacy, coalition building, and soft power tactics.

The use of cultural means, diplomacy, and persuasion to influence international affairs, often employed by smaller nations.

A country that is viewed as a small player on the international stage, lacking significant power or influence.

A situation where a state reacts to events rather than taking proactive steps to shape its environment.

A foreign policy approach where a state actively shapes its international environment, takes initiative, and pursues its own interests.

The extent to which a state feels confident and secure in its own capabilities.

The extent to which a state feels safe from threats and secure in its existence.

The idea that larger states may seek to control or dominate smaller states due to their perceived vulnerability.

The process where countries, especially after decolonization or separation, adapt to their new smaller status in the international system.

A country's distinct characteristics, values, and sense of identity that shape its place in the world.

A foreign policy approach focused on collaborating with other countries to address global challenges.

A nation's plan for interacting with the rest of the world, including its goals, strategies, and priorities.

The concept that nations with less power (small states) should follow the actions of the most powerful nations (great powers) due to various reasons, such as lack of resources or military strength.

An approach for smaller countries to increase their influence in international affairs by cooperating with other nations with similar interests or by focusing on specialized areas where they have unique strengths.

The idea that small states can play a significant role in global issues by working together, especially on issues like sustainable development, human rights, or environmental protection.

A framework for analyzing foreign policy based on three dimensions: pro-center vs. anti-center (alignment with major powers), autonomy vs. dependence (independence or reliance on others), and focus on economic issues vs. political-diplomatic issues.

A political approach where a charismatic leader or elite controls society through strong ideology and control, pushing their goals and agenda upon the people.

A political system where favors are exchanged for support, often creating loyalty but potentially leading to corruption and a lack of transparency.

A strong sense of national identity and pride, often driven by historical events, cultural heritage, or political ideology.

The idea that US leadership in international affairs has created a region of stability and peace, discouraging conflict in Latin America.