Penkovtsev, R. V., Hedayati Shahidani, M. “Soft Balancing” and Asymmetrical Regional Balancing in International Policy

Abstract: The authors of the article analyzes the relation between the strategies of “soft balancing” and asymmetrical balancing under the conditions of multipolarity. This structure is denoted by the 0+Х equation where “0” mean the absence of a dominating actor or hegemon (great power) in the international system. In this structure none of the actors may influence all aspects of the international order. The letter “X” here shows the number of “great powers’ playing their roles for each actor. Quite naturally, this system also determines and assigns new roles for each actor. One of the most significant factors is the relation between great powers and different geopoligical regions. In order to understand this problem and aspects thereto, the authors of the article analyze the foreign policy of Barack Obama administration. The authors make an assumption that the when solving different regional problems, Obama’s external affairs team uses the strategy that is based on the approaches of “soft balancing” and asymmetrical balancing. “Balancing” means the country’s ability not to allow the political domination of other countries through internal mobilization or strengthening of unions. In conclusion, the authors show that in this day and age it is possible to define the five main patterns of behavior of Americans in regional conflicts and their control over opposing actors.

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