Small States in Europe

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The post-1945 international order increased national security, prosperity and influence for small states in Europe. Today, small European states are challenged by changes in the transatlantic relationship, a new balance of power between Europe’s great powers, and a more fluent and complex institutional order in Europe. While sharing these challenges, small states in Europe differ significantly in terms of institutional affiliation, outlook on the role and function of Euro-Atlantic institutions, and economic capacity and competitiveness. They are now less likely to be stereotyped as inconsequential actors; but more likely to be excluded from decision-making processes unless they take a proactive stance towards new initiatives and developments. This benefits small states with strong human resource capabilities and effective bureaucracies able to take advantage of the various opportunities for influence-seeking in an institutionalized environment.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHandbook on the Politics of Small States
EditorsGodfrey Baldacchino, Anders Wivel
Place of PublicationCheltenham
PublisherEdward Elgar Publishing
Publication date2020
Pages99-112
ISBN (Print)9781788112925
ISBN (Electronic)9781788112932
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2020

ID: 239081461