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Begin New Search Publishing Institution The Polish Institute of International Affairs Publication Year within 25 Years

51. Putting Georgia on the 2018 NATO Summit Agenda

Author:
Wojciech Lorenz
Publication Date:
04-2018
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The Polish Institute of International Affairs
Abstract:
Russia’s annexation of Crimea triggered a shift in NATO’s policy towards Georgia. NATO moved from mainly political support for Georgia’s NATO membership aspirations to enhanced practical military cooperation. Although it might be more difficult for Russia to coerce its small neighbour, the lack of visible progress on the path to NATO membership may weaken Georgian morale and lead to a reversal of democratic gains. Hence, it is important that during the 2018 NATO Summit in Brussels the Allies offer additional support to help Georgia increase its resilience.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Georgia

52. Austria in Central Europe: The Aspiration to Become a Bridge-Builder

Author:
Łukasz Ogrodnik
Publication Date:
03-2018
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The Polish Institute of International Affairs
Abstract:
Austria’s government has declared it will be a bridge-builder in the European Union between its western and eastern members. This is in fact rather more an endorsement of the Union cohesion on the eve of Austria’s presidency of the EU Council than a genuine offer to represent the Visegrad states’ interests in the EU. Vienna is also trying to strengthen its position in Central Europe using regional cooperation initiatives such as the Slavkov Triangle, Three Seas Initiative, and the V4+ format. However, Austria’s pro-Russia stances and economic conflicts of interest have burdened relations with regional partners. Common goals remain limited but include the development of transport infrastructure, an endorsement of the European integration of the Western Balkans and strengthening the EU’s external borders.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Austria

53. Towards a “New Era” in China’s Great Power Diplomacy

Author:
Justyna Szczudlik
Publication Date:
03-2018
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The Polish Institute of International Affairs
Abstract:
In his first term, Chinese leader Xi Jinping abandoned Deng Xiaoping’s foreign policy dictum of “keeping a low profile.” But China’s activism in the middle of Xi’s first term was still more reactive than creative. However, in the last two years a new phase of diplomacy has emerged, in which all actions are subordinated to China’s unchanging strategic foreign policy goal of regaining its superpower status. This means that China strives to enforce change in the global system, which is dominated by the West.[1] The PRC is already trying to introduce new standards for international relations and promotes its values and principles more aggressively worldwide. There are already examples that Xi is effectively implementing his ideas.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
China

54. PISM Report: Nordic-Baltic Security in Times of Uncertainty: The Defence-Energy Nexus

Author:
Bartosz Bieliszczuk and Aleksandra Gawlikowska-Fyk
Publication Date:
03-2018
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
The Polish Institute of International Affairs
Abstract:
The Polish Institute of International Affairs together with the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs present the report Nordic-Baltic Security in Times of Uncertainty: The Defense-Energy Nexus. The report shows that energy and defence in the Nordic-Baltic region are closely interrelated. During the Cold War, the energy cooperation of Western European countries with the USSR was seen as an element of strengthening the status quo and reducing the risk of conflict. In the new strategic situation, when Russia is interested in regaining the status of regional and global power, there is a real threat that Kremlin will use Europe's dependence on Russian gas to divide NATO and the EU. The Russian military advantage in the region, the ability to block access to Alliance forces and the ability to influence its members through energy blackmail may encourage Russia to test NATO's credibility, increasing the risk of conflict in the region. NATO's ability to deter Russia creates a natural platform of cooperation for Norway and Poland. Both states should also be interested in reducing the Alliance's dependence on Russian energy resources.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Nordic Nations

55. PISM Report: Indie w procesie reform: szanse dla Polski

Author:
Patryk Kugiel
Publication Date:
03-2018
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
The Polish Institute of International Affairs
Abstract:
On 15 August 2017, India celebrated the 70th anniversary of independence. In that time, it has changed from a newly post-colonial, underdeveloped, and famine-suffering state to one of the largest economies in the world and an emerging power. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s accession in 2014 marked a new stage in the reforms and transformation of the country to release its potential and accelerate development. As the latest large economy to open to more foreign investment and international cooperation, India offers huge business opportunities. This report introduces the reforms and programmes implemented in India that indicate opportunities for Polish companies interested in this market. Prepared as a guidebook, the report also formulates recommendations for businesses and the Polish administration to strengthen cooperation with India (available only in Polish).
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Poland

56. Turkey’s Economic Problems before the Elections

Author:
Karol Wasilewski
Publication Date:
06-2018
Content Type:
Commentary and Analysis
Institution:
The Polish Institute of International Affairs
Abstract:
In May, the Turkish lira reached a record low to the U.S. dollar. Turkey’s growing economic problems stem from Turkish politicians’ preference for political goals over economic ones. For now, the authorities have begun to undertake actions to regain investors’ trust, but in the longer term, Turkey’s economy needs to undergo deep and probably unpopular structural reform. The country’s economic problems may significantly influence the parliamentary and presidential elections set for 24 June.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Turkey

57. The Varna Quadrilateral: A New Format for Regional Cooperation

Author:
Jakub Pieńkowski and Tomasz Żornaczuk
Publication Date:
06-2018
Content Type:
Commentary and Analysis
Institution:
The Polish Institute of International Affairs
Abstract:
Initiated at the end of 2017, the Varna Quadrilateral is a forum for cooperation between Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia and Romania. It is intended to improve coordination of cross-border infrastructure and energy investments between the largest countries in southeastern Europe. Meetings to date also show that collaboration can have clear political elements. However, a half year after the inauguration of the new initiative, its future is in doubt due to the great differences between its members.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Europe

58. Xi Transforms the PLA: How the Military Is Being Adapted to China’s Changing Global Position

Author:
Marcin Przychodniak
Publication Date:
10-2017
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The Polish Institute of International Affairs
Abstract:
Reform of the Chinese armed forces gained new momentum under Xi Jinping in 2015. The main argument behind the strategy, structure, and equipment modernisation of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is the active defence of China’s global interests to strengthen its competitiveness with the United States. A short-term goal is to make the PLA operationally capable of projecting China’s power abroad constantly, using joint exercises, peacekeeping missions, and the development of military infrastructure. One recent example was opening of China’s first foreign military base in Djibouti. The PLA should also be capable of defending China’s territory and overseas interests by performing combat operations abroad. This means a possible change to the non-intervention clause that has until now been a crucial element of China’s foreign policy.
Topic:
International Security and Military Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

59. Perilous Changes in Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Policy

Author:
Patrycja Sasnal
Publication Date:
12-2017
Content Type:
Commentary and Analysis
Institution:
The Polish Institute of International Affairs
Abstract:
Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman is solidifying his position and changes to the foreign policy of Saudi Arabia. His main objective is the forceful consolidation of the Arab camp against Iran and the Muslim Brotherhood. Key decisions of Saudi foreign policy—the military intervention in Yemen, imposition of a blockade on Qatar, and pressure on the Lebanese government—have proven counterproductive. The continuation of this ill-advised policy is neither conducive towards the stability of the Middle East, nor to the Saudi posture and ability to form alliances.
Topic:
International Security
Political Geography:
Saudi Arabia

60. Military Dimension of the New U.S. and NATO Afghanistan Strategy

Author:
Wojciech Lorenz
Publication Date:
12-2017
Content Type:
Commentary and Analysis
Institution:
The Polish Institute of International Affairs
Abstract:
According to the new U.S. strategy for Afghanistan, winter will not stop intensified operations against the Taliban. With the increased U.S. and NATO troop level, Afghan forces will switch from defensive to offensive activities. Only stronger military pressure and other forms of influence taken together might impel the Taliban to negotiate with the government in Kabul. The political effects of the new strategy should be expected only in a longer-term perspective.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Afghanistan