Role Theory and Russian Foreign Policy: Rolling Changes in National Role Conceptions

Damian Strycharz's book "Role Theory and Russian Foreign Policy" fills a gap in the literature by analyzing leaders' perceptions and the interactions between internal and external factors shaping foreign policy decisions in Russia. It challenges existing interpretations of Russian foreign policy and demonstrates that processes of foreign policy formation are more complex and include more actors than commonly assumed. The book is an ideal resource for scholars and researchers of international relations, foreign policy, and post-Soviet politics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Despite the growing interest in Russia and its international behavior, current analyses still leave much unexplained. To address this gap in the literature, Damian Strycharz conducts a comprehensive analysis that examines the perceptions of leaders and the interplay between internal and external factors influencing foreign policy decisions. By challenging existing interpretations of Russian foreign policy and shedding light on the dynamics of role-playing in non-democracies, Strycharz delves into Russia's responses to significant events such as the 2003-4 color revolutions in Georgia and Ukraine, the Five-Day War in Georgia, and the Euromaidan Revolution. Through his examination, he argues that divergent reactions to these upheavals stem from a profound shift in the leadership's perceptions of Russia's international responsibilities. This shift, in turn, led to a reevaluation of Russia's international duties and a departure from its traditional Western partner role, resulting in more assertive foreign policy behavior exemplified by interventions in Georgia and the annexation of Crimea.

The book is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers interested in international relations, foreign policy, and post-Soviet politics. It demonstrates that the processes of foreign policy formation in Russia are more complex and involve a wider range of actors than commonly assumed. By providing a detailed account of Russia's responses to these critical events, Strycharz contributes to our understanding of the complex dynamics shaping Russia's foreign policy decisions and their implications for the broader international landscape.

In conclusion, Role Theory and Russian Foreign Policy offers a fresh and insightful perspective on Russia's foreign policy decisions and their underlying dynamics. By examining the perceptions of leaders and the interplay between internal and external factors, Strycharz provides valuable insights into the complex and evolving nature of Russian foreign policy. This book is a must-read for scholars and researchers seeking to understand the intricacies of this important country's international relations.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032112824