The joint scientific journal of the Georgian Technical University and the Caucasus International University - “SociopolitoLOGOS” publishes articles in various areas of social sciences. It is open to all scientists, researchers and practitioners interested in issues of politics and international relations. The journal “SociopolitoLOGOS” is a fully open access, international peer-reviewed publication. It is committed to publishing original works that make a significant contribution to the field of social sciences, as well as security, humanitarian and even technical sciences. In addition, the journal will be placed in international scientific databases (Google Scholar, Crossref, DOI, etc. Journal DOI: https://doi.org/10.52340/splogos e-ISSN: 2960-9089
Shifts in the New World Order: Key Actors and Challenges
This article examines the transformation of the 21st-century world order from a U.S.-dominated unipolar system to a more complex, multipolar model. The paper analyzes the roles and strategic goals of the key geopolitical actors, the United States, China, and Russia, within this process. The United States is presented as the architect of the liberal world order, striving to maintain its hegemony amid rising competition and domestic sentiments such as populism. China is discussed as a critical economic and technological power that is actively shaping alternative global influences through its "Belt and Road Initiative" and significant military modernization. Russia is described as a revisionist power advocating for multipolarity while attempting to restrict Western dominance and restore its own spheres of influence through military interventions, specifically in Georgia and Ukraine. Particular attention is given to the reactivation of NATO as a guarantor of collective security and the challenges it faces, including the issue of alliance expansion and existential threats emanating from Russia. The article concludes that the contemporary world order is characterized by great power rivalry, a technological race, and the evolution of international norms.
The Role of INTERPOL as an Intergovernmental Organization in the Development of International Relations - the Institutional and Technological Framework Defined by the Organization
This article examines the status and functional evolution of INTERPOL within the context of global governance and international relations. It argues that INTERPOL has emerged as a key transnational security actor in the twenty-first century despite its atypical legal foundation, as it does not originate from a classical international treaty framework. Nevertheless, it performs core functions of an intergovernmental organization and is widely recognized as such by the majority of states. The article places particular emphasis on INTERPOL’s transformation into a network-based and data-driven institution. The use of modern technologies, including biometric data and global information systems, has significantly enhanced the capacities of INTERPOL. The organization represents an important component of global governance, shaping a new model of international cooperation in the field of security. This model is based on trust-based collaboration among states, knowledge sharing, and collective responsibility, which together constitute a key foundation for ensuring security in contemporary international relations.
The Consociational Democracy Model in Conflict Management in the Case of Abkhazia
Governing an ethnically and politically divided society is considered a difficult challenge in modern political science, as formal institutions often fail to ensure stability. The model of consociational democracy, as conceived by Arend Leifhardt, considers the institutional distribution of power in divided societies as a way to create stability. The Abkhazian conflict of the 1990s is an example where the design of political institutions, despite the use of ethnic quotas, failed to ensure stability due to a lack of trust and the influence of external actors. The study showed that the principles of consociational democracy formally existed. Due to the lack of cooperation among elites and the intensification of ethnic competition in the governance process, institutional mechanisms were unable to de-escalate the conflict. Comparative analysis has revealed that integrative approaches, based on cooperation between groups and the involvement of the wider community, create more effective conditions for conflict management. The case of Abkhazia clearly shows that the success of the consociational model depends not only on institutional mechanisms but also on socio-political preconditions, the degree of trust, and the influence of external actors. As a result, the creation of formal institutions alone is not sufficient for stable and sustainable political coexistence, and conflict management is possible only when political, ethnic, and geopolitical factors are jointly controlled.
The Energy Interests of the United States in the Foreign Policy of the Persian Gulf Countries
The article reviews the stages of oil discovery and its transformation in the United States of America, as the U.S. sought to compete with oil-producing states in the Persian Gulf region. The growing interest of states in crude oil within the context of the energy transition is discussed, along with the initial stages of energy diplomacy with Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region, as the formation of future interests would be impossible without such connections. Since 1972, oil has become the main source of energy, leading to an increase in consumption. Due to high demand, oil prices have risen significantly. As 63% of the world’s proven oil reserves are located in the Arabian Gulf, the energy interests of the United States have remained consistent across different presidential administrations, bringing it closer to oil-producing countries. The steps taken by each U.S. president from 1991 to 2024 toward the global energy transition are discussed, along with their future visions, benefits, and risks. While U.S. foreign policy in the Persian Gulf was previously focused on military interventions, it has increasingly shifted toward economic and energy diplomacy. During its period of economic modernization, China viewed the Persian Gulf as a logical partner for development. It began making its first investment in Iraq’s oil sector, followed by broader oilfield development projects. China is shaping its energy interests through strategic cooperation with Iran, supported by memorandums of understanding (MOUs), which address both current and future drilling activities across the region. Plans emphasize the transition to clean energy and focus on how to achieve low-carbon development.
Georgia's Cybersecurity Policy and Prospects for its Implementation
In the modern world, cyberspace has become one of the most important components of state security. The rapid development of information technologies, the digital transformation of the state and private sectors, and the increase in cyber attacks increase the need for an effective cybersecurity policy. Georgia, as a developing democratic state and an active participant in regional cooperation, pays special attention to strengthening the cybersecurity system and bringing it closer to international standards. Georgia's cybersecurity policy is based on the National Security Strategy and a special legislative and institutional framework aimed at protecting critical infrastructure, ensuring the security of information systems of state agencies, and responding quickly to cyber incidents. In this direction, the country has created relevant agencies and mechanisms that ensure monitoring, prevention, and cooperation both domestically and internationally. The prospects for policy implementation depend significantly on the development of technological capabilities, the training of qualified personnel, raising public awareness, and deepening cooperation with international partners. Coordination between the public and private sectors, the formation of a cybersecurity culture, and the introduction of modern technologies are especially important. Ultimately, the successful implementation of Georgia's cybersecurity policy will contribute to strengthening the country's national security, ensuring economic stability, and increasing the trustworthiness of the digital environment. Despite the existing challenges, with the right strategic approaches and international experience sharing, Georgia has a real opportunity to develop a sustainable and effective cybersecurity system.
Brexit as the Beginning of the EU Crisis
Europe, the birthplace of modern civilization, has experienced changes and wars for thousands of years. It is still the focus of world politics, economics, and technology today. With the creation of the European Union, the concept of European integration has once again become a subject of public discussion. The withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union hurts the European Union, as the European Union was already struggling with a series of crises, such as the migration crisis, the eurozone crisis, and the escalation of anti-EU sentiment. The EU's main trading partner was the United Kingdom, which accounted for about 13% of its trade, so the decision of the United Kingdom to leave the European Union further increases the threats to the survival of the European Union, as the United Kingdom was an important member of the EU. After the United Kingdom's withdrawal, EU leaders fear that other member states will also demand their withdrawal from the EU's foreign policy if Brexit affects the imposition of EU sanctions and human rights. Even after the UK leaves the European Union, the UK aims to remain a global leader in world diplomacy. It is important to discuss, analyze, and determine the positive and negative consequences of Brexit.
Different Foreign Political Vectors of the South Caucasus Countries and their Impact on the Regional Security
The article discusses the changes in the geopolitical processes taking place in the South Caucasus region between global and regional actors. The study focuses on the analysis of the different foreign political vectors of the countries of the South Caucasus and the factors that determine their strategic choices. In this paper, particular attention is paid to such political actors as Russia, Turkey, Iran, the USA, the EU, and China. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union and the restoration of independence, the countries of the Soviet Caucasus chose different political courses, which created a new format of competition among both regional and external actors. Georgia maintains its commitment to the course of joining the Euro-Atlantic structure, which contradicts Russian interests. Azerbaijan implements a multi-vector and pragmatic policy, thereby distancing itself from Russia and the West. Azerbaijan also strengthens its strategic partnership with Turkey and other regional actors. Armenia, which traditionally has been dependent on Russia, seeks to diversify its foreign policy and deepen relations with the West.
The Zangezur Corridor Project in the South Caucasus: Necessity of Implementation, Prospects, and Regional Impact
This article explores the potential role of developing transport connectivity in the South Caucasus, specifically within the context of routes passing through southern Armenia (frequently referred to as the "Zangezur Corridor"). The paper analyzes the economic, geopolitical, and regional integration implications within the broader framework of Eurasian transport corridors, including the Middle Corridor (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) and the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway. The research draws upon reports from international organizations (World Bank, OECD, European Union) and peer-reviewed academic literature. The findings indicate that while enhanced transport links could foster trade development and regional integration, their effectiveness is significantly dependent on political agreements, issues of sovereignty, and the prevailing geopolitical environment.
The Dilemma of Developing Military Doctrines for Small States (on the Example of Georgia)
The development of military doctrine in small states represents a strategic dilemma shaped by limited resources, geopolitical vulnerability, and the anarchic nature of the international system. In today’s security environment characterized by power asymmetry, hybrid threats, and regional conflicts, small states must design flexible and multi-layered defense strategies. This paper analyzes threat perception, deterrence mechanisms, the development of asymmetric capabilities, and the risks associated with alliance dependency. The theoretical framework draws upon neorealism and regional security complex theory. The research methodology includes comparative analysis and case study approaches. The scientific novelty of the study lies in proposing an integrated model for military doctrine formation in small states, combining domestic resource optimization, technological innovation, and external security guarantees to ensure sustainable national defense and strategic resilience.
Security Choices of Small States under Conditions of Great-Power Competition
The article examines the security choices of small states under conditions of great-power competition. It shows that in the contemporary international environment, small states face a strategic dilemma that simultaneously involves security, sovereignty, foreign policy orientation, and internal resilience. The article focuses on the nature of the small state as a specific actor in international relations, the main models of security choice, and the external and internal factors shaping those choices. It analyzes the logic of balancing, alliance involvement, neutrality, and multi-vector foreign policy. The article argues that an effective security strategy for a small state cannot be defined only by military guarantees; it also depends on political stability, economic resilience, institutional capacity, diplomatic flexibility, and the degree of social consensus. Special attention is paid to the idea that, under contemporary conditions, the security choice of small states is increasingly linked to complex resilience. The conclusion emphasizes that the successful security choice of small states under great-power rivalry is based on combining external partnerships, internal resilience, and strategic adaptation.
Intelligence Agency and International Relations
The article discusses the role of intelligence services in the foreign policy of the state and international relations. Active international relations and close bilateral or multilateral ties play an important role in the development of states. It is precisely the effectiveness of these relations that largely determines the domestic and foreign policy strategies of the country. For small countries like Georgia, the implementation of an effective foreign policy and the correct conduct of international relations are vital. In the modern world, intelligence services play an important role in these processes, which makes them the “invisible rulers” of international relations.
The Impact of Social Factors on Communication Systems: a Comparative Analysis of International and Georgian Studies
This article analyzes the social factors shaping modern communication through a comparative perspective between international and Georgian studies. The framework draws on Jürgen Habermas, Erving Goffman, and Niklas Luhmann, enabling a multidimensional interpretation of communication. Analytical, comparative, systemic, and extrapolative methods are used to interpret and adapt international findings to the Georgian context. The analysis reveals that communication structures are shaped by social inequality, cultural codes, and digital access. The extrapolative approach highlights the diffusion potential of global trends within Georgian society, where communication systems remain under formation.
This article explores the processes of transformation and marginalization of traditional media (newspapers and radio) within the context of the modern digital ecosystem. The work aims to analyze the impact of changes in media platforms on the psycho-social well-being of society, particularly during emergencies. A quantitative survey conducted as part of doctoral research at the Georgian Technical University reveals the following: 0% of respondents use print media, while only up to 3% turn to the radio for information. The absolute majority of the audience is concentrated on internet platforms. The research confirmed the hypothesis that emotional narratives focused on shock and trauma in the digital space significantly increase psychological distress, anxiety, and social apathy among the population. The article argues that the weakening of traditional, rational information filters amidst the economic crisis of the media market poses a direct threat to the mental resilience of society. In conclusion, strategies for increasing media responsibility and media literacy are proposed to mitigate negative influences during crisis periods.
Bioterrorism and Threats Posed by Aggressive Non-State Actors
This article examines the threats posed by bioterrorism and aggressive non-state actors in international politics. Against the backdrop of ongoing global political processes, the scale of these threats continues to expand. International terrorism, cyberterrorism, asymmetric threats, information warfare, and bioterrorism, alongside current global conflicts, constitute significant challenges to global security. The magnitude of threats originating from aggressive non-state actors is steadily increasing. Bioterrorism, in particular, has the potential to generate large-scale global risks, affecting multiple sectors and potentially leading to systemic disruption. In addition to the spread of disease, such threats could result in substantial human casualties. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated to the entire world how rapidly a biological agent can spread and how difficult it can be to control. This study aims to highlight the threats posed by bioterrorism and aggressive non-state actors within the framework of international politics. The research employs methods such as policy analysis, content analysis, and comparative analysis. The theoretical framework of the study is based on securitization theory, biosecurity theory, realism, and the theory of new terrorism. The findings of the study underline the extent to which bioterrorism represents a serious threat to both national and international security, particularly in the context of the growing challenges posed by aggressive non-state actors. The concluding section summarizes the main findings and offers recommendations, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to reducing bioterrorism risks and strengthening global security.
Determinants of Behavioral Style in Social Contexts: a Structural Analysis of Empathy Dimensions, Personality Traits, and Behavioral Responses
This article examines the psychological determinants of behavioral styles in social and crisis-related contexts, with particular emphasis on the role of empathy and personality traits. Drawing on contemporary models of social behavior, the study integrates Thomas’s behavioral style framework, Davis’s multidimensional model of empathy, and the Big Five personality theory to provide a structural analysis of behavioral responses in conflict and stress situations. Methodologically, the research is based on an empirical quantitative design employing the Georgian-adapted versions of the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI), Thomas’s behavioral style inventory, and the Big Five personality questionnaire. The scientific novelty of the study lies in its integrative examination of empathy as a central regulatory mechanism linking personality traits to adaptive and maladaptive behavioral strategies. The findings confirm that empathy functions as a significant psychological predictor of behavioral style, particularly in crisis and conflict situations, and contributes to more constructive coping strategies, social adaptation, and effective interpersonal functioning.
US-Russian Geostrategic Interests in the Black Sea Region in a Transforming World Order
The article analyzes the geostrategic position of the Black Sea within the context of the competing foreign and defense policies of the United States and Russia. Based on the analysis of various scholarly documents, both contemporary and historical geopolitical theories are outlined, demonstrating the role of the Black Sea at regional and global levels within a transforming world order. The research employs a comparative analysis of the interests of regional and global actors. The article addresses the question of which factors determine the transformation of the interests of these two geostrategic rivals in the region under conditions of changes in the new world order, where other actors (China, Turkey, NATO, and the European Union) are also attempting to alter the balance of power in the region. The study is grounded in the comparative analysis method. In reviewing the foreign policy interests of the United States and Russia, it draws upon the Heartland Theory, Balance of Power Theory, Regional Security Complex Theory, and Cooperative Security Theory, thereby highlighting the strategic importance of the Black Sea region at the international level. The article further examines the interests of the United States, Russia, and a new actor, China, in the Black Sea region, as well as the ongoing confrontation in the area, which has transformed the region from a space of bipolar competition into a new wave of international confrontation, where each local action generates global consequences. The research itself makes a significant contribution to the study of the strategic behavior of international and regional actors in the Black Sea region within the context of a transforming world order.
Bullying as a Manifestation of Social Dynamics: Status, Relationships and Culture
This study aims to comprehensively examine the socio-psychological and cultural determinants of school bullying using a mixed-methods approach. The study is based on the theoretical perspective that bullying is a multi-level process formed through the interaction of individual, interpersonal, and cultural factors. The study involved 450 students aged between 13 and 17. Quantitative data were collected using standardised questionnaires and analysed using correlational and regression methods. Qualitative data were obtained through focus group discussions and processed using thematic analysis. This mixed-methods approach allowed for an in-depth exploration of the socio-psychological and cultural determinants of school bullying, providing both a statistical assessment of the relationships between variables and a nuanced understanding of the participants' experiences and perceptions. This integrated approach offered a comprehensive view of bullying as a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by personal traits, peer interactions, and wider cultural contexts. The results of the study indicated that, although indirect, social status is an important predictor of bullying. Its influence operates through psychological and social mediating factors. Social isolation was identified as a strong risk factor, while psychological well-being and positive peer relationships were recognised as protective factors. The study also confirmed the significant role of cultural context in shaping the forms and perceptions of bullying. In conclusion, effectively understanding and preventing bullying requires an integrated, systemic, and culturally sensitive approach that considers individual, social, and cultural factors.
The Impact of Globalization on State Sovereignty
This article examines the impact of globalization on the transformation of state sovereignty in the contemporary international system. The study critically reassesses the classical Westphalian understanding of sovereignty and demonstrates how its content is reshaped under conditions of economic integration, the strengthening of international institutions, the growing influence of transnational actors, and digital transformation. The research explores the main dimensions of sovereignty, internal and external, legal, political, economic, and technological, and highlights their interdependence. Particular attention is paid to the constraints on economic sovereignty arising from global financial markets and the policy conditionality imposed by international institutions, as well as to the increasing significance of technological and informational sovereignty in the twenty-first century. The article analyzes the European Union as a model of shared sovereignty, the role of the International Monetary Fund in limiting national economic policy autonomy, and China’s approach to strengthening digital sovereignty. The study concludes that contemporary states operate within a regime of hybrid sovereignty, where formal legal autonomy often diverges from the actual distribution of power. It argues that the viability of sovereignty in the age of globalization depends not on isolation, but on its adaptive, multidimensional, and integrative transformation.
The US-China Struggle for Hegemony in the Context of New Technologies
The article discusses the global rivalry between the United States and the People's Republic of China for technological hegemony, which is one of the main transformations of the international system of the 21st century. Technology has become an important instrument of power in the modern era and determines both economic opportunities and geopolitical influence. The study aims to analyze the transformation of hegemony from the military and economic spheres to the digital and technological space, where competition is taking place in the direction of artificial intelligence, 5G networks, the semiconductor industry, and cybersecurity. The study, based on an analysis of academic and analytical sources, shows that technological superiority is one of the main determinants of contemporary international politics. The US seeks to maintain leadership by supporting innovation, open markets, and democratic standards, while China develops a state-directed model focused on technological autonomy and data control. According to the conclusion, technological competition determines the hegemony of the 21st century and is the basis for the formation of a new global technological order.
The contemporary world is confronted with profound demographic challenges. While developed countries are experiencing a significant decline in birth rates, developing countries continue to face uncontrolled population growth. Georgia is among the states currently struggling with acute demographic issues. This article examines the underlying causes of these challenges in Georgia and explores possible solutions by drawing on the experience of several European countries, with particular emphasis on the Netherlands. The Dutch case provides a notable example of effective strategies for managing and addressing demographic pressures. Building on this model, the paper outlines policy recommendations for the Government of Georgia to help mitigate and respond to its demographic crisis.
Trump's Roadmap for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) - Expectations and Reality
This research article presents the associated manifestations of the process of forming a new world order, in particular, the creation of new international transit corridors. It examines and analyzes the "Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP)" in detail. It highlights both the positive significance of the route and the factors hindering it, both from a local and geostrategic perspective. The paper emphasizes the international, neighboring, economic, and political aspects of the Middle Corridor, which passes through Georgia. It also notes the opinions of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on Trump and the Middle Corridor. It argues that the simultaneous existence of both routes will be more effective, and that the implementation of the Trump Route, which could be completed within a few years, will merely complement the Middle Corridor rather than serve as an alternative.
The Role of Digital Diplomacy in Modern International Relations: Opportunities and Challenges
Digital diplomacy has become one of the most dynamic instruments of contemporary international relations. The development of information technologies and social media has significantly transformed the forms of interstate communication, diplomatic practice, and the mechanisms of foreign policy implementation. This paper aims to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of digital diplomacy, assess its impact on international politics, and identify the main challenges associated with its development. The research employs a qualitative methodology, incorporating a review of academic literature, theoretical approaches, and selected practical examples. Particular attention is given to communication speed, public engagement, transparency, and the strengthening of soft power. At the same time, the paper discusses the risks of disinformation, cybersecurity threats, and superficial communication. The findings demonstrate that digital diplomacy is a dual phenomenon that simultaneously creates both opportunities and risks. Its effective use requires strategic management, institutional resilience, and strengthened international cooperation.
Economic Socialization and Motivational Structure among Young People Living in Georgia
The present study aims to examine the role of motivational factors in the process of economic socialization among young people living in Georgia. The research uses a quantitative methodology and includes data from 528 respondents aged 18 to 40. The study employs the professional motivation assessment method developed by Zamfir and later modified by Rean, which measures intrinsic motivation, positive extrinsic motivation, and negative extrinsic motivation. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The findings reveal that extrinsic positive motivation is predominant among young individuals, while intrinsic motivation tends to increase with age. The study confirms the multifactorial nature of economic behavior and emphasizes the significant role of both psychological and social factors in shaping economic socialization.
Transport Logistics and Urban Governance in the Context of International Sports Events
This article examines the interrelationship between transport logistics and urban governance in the context of international sports events and analyzes their social, political, and infrastructural impacts on urban functioning. The study focuses on how the organization of transport systems during large-scale sports events influences population mobility, the implementation of state policies, and the level of social equity within urban environments. The research is based on a qualitative methodological approach, including literature analysis, comparative analysis, conceptual assessment, and case study interpretation. The findings reveal that transport logistics represents not only an operational mechanism but also an important instrument of urban governance, significantly affecting spatial organization and resource distribution within cities. The results indicate that during international sports events, transport policies often lead to temporary mobility restrictions and unequal accessibility for different social groups, thereby increasing the risk of urban inequality. At the same time, well-planned transport logistics contributes to infrastructure development and the long-term improvement of urban systems. The article emphasizes the importance of inclusive urban governance, data-driven decision-making, and ex-ante assessment of social impacts as essential components of effective transport policy in the context of large-scale events.
General Challenges of Globalization and the Evolution of the World of Work in the Context of Trends of Uneven Economic Internationalization
The article discusses globalization as a complex, multifaceted, and contradictory process on a human scale. The author analyzes the historical roots of globalization (from colonialism to modern forms), its conceptual debates between globalists and skeptics/anti-globalists, economic inequality, the growing influence of transnational corporations (corporatocracy), and the evolution of the world of work. Particular attention is paid to the negative consequences of global economic internationalization - labor exploitation, deepening inequality, and social imbalance. The conclusion emphasizes the role of global social dialogue and the international trade union movement as a mechanism for mitigating the negative aspects of globalization and establishing a more just model.
Monitoring and Evaluation of Sustainable Development Goals: A Methodological Framework for Research on the Case of Georgia
Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a cornerstone of contemporary Georgian politics and national development strategy. This article examines the methodological framework for monitoring and evaluating the SDGs within the Georgian context, specifically addressing data availability, indicator precision, and quantitative selection processes. Furthermore, it analyzes the implementation of SDGs at the national level, focusing on the specific indicators and data collection methods employed. The findings suggest that methodological diversity enhances both assessment accuracy and the quality of strategic decision-making. Finally, the article proposes a comprehensive strategy integrating key principles, methods, and tools to facilitate effective SDG assessment at both national and regional levels, providing a clearer roadmap for evaluating policy achievements.
The Impact of Hybrid Warfare on the Ongoing Domestic Political Processes in Georgia
Hybrid warfare has emerged as one of the key challenges in contemporary international relations, exerting a particularly strong influence on small and geopolitically vulnerable states. This form of warfare encompasses military, informational, economic, cyber, and cultural instruments designed not only to undermine state sovereignty but also to destabilize domestic political systems. Disinformation campaigns and informational manipulations constitute a critical component of these tactics, as they intensify political polarization and deepen social disagreement. As a result, the functioning of democratic institutions slows down, trust in political processes declines, and the formation of a broad social consensus becomes increasingly difficult. The use of economic levers, including energy dependence and sanctions in trade, impacts both Georgia’s internal economic stability and its foreign political orientation. This article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of hybrid warfare on Georgia’s internal political processes. It examines how informational and economic instruments are employed to shape the political agenda and explores the implications of these dynamics for the country’s democratic development. Particular attention is given to the crisis of public trust and the effects on Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic integration trajectory. The findings suggest that under conditions of hybrid warfare, Georgia must strengthen resilience, protect critical infrastructure, and enhance public awareness in order to mitigate external pressure and ensure the sustainable development of democratic processes.
Historical Overview of the Development of Military Intelligence, Levels of Activity and Planning Mechanisms (Theoretical View)
The paper “Historical Review of the Development of Military Intelligence, Levels of Activity, and Planning Mechanisms” discusses one of the sub-fields of the extensive intelligence system, namely the features of specific military intelligence activities, specific examples of historical development, and mechanisms for planning military intelligence activities. All of the above-listed subject areas consider the importance of military intelligence activities at various stages of political, economic, and social development of the countries, as well as diversification of the intelligence services and their areas of activity in accordance with the existing challenges and requirements. Particular attention is paid to historical examples of intelligence activities, which discuss specific facts of the activities of intelligence services in ancient Greece and the Roman Empire before our era, and in the Middle Ages, which allow us to clearly see not only local actions of intelligence activities, but also continuous processes of intelligence activities as well as systemized methods of collecting, processing and disseminating intelligence information, including specific facts of conducting pre-planned intelligence operations and structured units of intelligence services at the tactical, operational and strategic levels. The paper also presents the role of military intelligence activities in the processes of shaping national security, strengthening the country's defense capabilities, and timely identification of internal and external military threats.
Realpolitik as the Basis of International Relations and Diplomacy
The article is devoted to the analysis of the historical development and theoretical foundations of realpolitik as the basis of international relations and diplomacy. The paper discusses the origins of realpolitik from antiquity (Thucydides, Sun Tzu), focusing on important figures of the Renaissance (Machiavelli), absolutism (Richelieu), the 19th century (Bismarck) and the 20th century (Morgenthau, Kissinger, Brzezinski, Aron). Special attention is paid to the relationship between geopolitical factors and geographical determinism with realpolitik. The central thesis of the paper is that realpolitik, which is based on a pragmatic calculation of the balance of power and national interests, opposes ideological and moral considerations and is the best tool for the success of states.