The Success of Small States in International Relations

"Academic debate and political discourse are replete with references to elite groups like G7, G20 or P5 and, in the non-state sphere, to ‘the big Four’ or those deemed ‘too big to fail’. Not here: The Success of Small States in International Relations: Mice that Roar? refreshingly examines the roles and strengths of ‘small states’ from a truly global perspective (and less so their vulnerabilities, for a change). Small states in international fora are not just ignored or bullied except where their voting strength matters. This exciting book highlights their contribution and the victories they can still obtain on merit."

Milan Meetarbhan, Former Ambassador of Mauritius to the United Nations

"This is a major contribution to our Small State Studies book series and to knowledge on the subject matter of small states. There is vast knowledge on small states in terms of scholarship and policy/political papers and experience (diplomacy, societal governance, etc); but there is very little that engages in any meaningful comparisons and contrasts using a genuinely small-state perspective case-study format as this book does. Moreover, the successes of small states are often vastly understated. This book is a major contribution to the literature, and I would certainly want to make it part of our sociology, politics and international relations curricula."

Nicos Trimikliniotis, University of Nicosia, Cyprus

"This important volume analyses why, how and when small states succeed in influencing international affairs. Exploring international and domestic conditions as well as the role of leadership, the authors show how small states take advantage of international rules and norms to further strategic interests that go well beyond the defensive protection of territorial integrity. Arguing that small state influence should no longer be treated as exceptional, the book adds significantly to our understanding of small states in international affairs and challenges conventional understandings of international relations."

Anders Wivel, University of Copenhagen, Denmark

“This book is a valuable vademecum for the national political elites of small states, urging them not to be easily intimidated or pushed around, not afraid to speak up, not to hide from a challenge.”

Evarist Bartolo, Former Labour education and foreign minister, Malta, writing in the Times of Malta, 2023 https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/opinion-it-small-world.1041851

“The book's ability to intrigue further interest in the topic, based on its relatively short case-studies, is crucial, and this volume certainly excels… Overall, this edited volume is a useful resource for everyone interested in small states as actors in international politics.”

Milla Vaha, The University of the South Pacific, Fiji Islands, writing in International Affairs, 100:1, pp. 418-20, 2024