Maximizing influence by leading the Council : smart state strategies for small state presidencies

Abstract

How does a small state maximize their influence when leading the Council? This chapter argues that small states need to prioritize goals and means, network and accept their relative lack of power as the point of departure for their diplomatic efforts if they are to maximize influence when holding the Council presidency. A small state lacks relative and absolute capabilities and is by definition “the weaker part in an asymmetric relationship, which is unable to change the nature or functioning of the relationship on its own”. Small states “are not in command of power resources sufficient to pursue dominant power politics”. Consequently small states rely on diplomatic means of influence and persuasion. They seek to affect or change events or policies in their external environment by use of diplomatic tools for achieving political objectives. [excerpt]