Research On The Choice Of Diplomatic Strategy In Small States

The diplomatic strategy has always been an important field of research in the international relations academia,which is regarded as the core of policy making by great powers and small states.In comparison with small states,the choice of great powers'diplomatic strategy is more flexible and can be withdrawn.Small states,on the other hand,may find it difficult to secure their national security if diplomatic strategy is wrong.Therefore,this paper attempts to study the choice of small states' diplomatic strategy,sums up several main modes of diplomatic strategy,and analyzes and discusses the factors that affect the choice of diplomatic strategies of small states.In general,there are six kinds of diplomatic strategic models of small states,such as balance,neutrality,alliance,collective security,cooperative security,provocation or war.However,these diplomatic strategies are different in their connotation and form of expression.These factors need to be analyzed when choosing a choice and grasp the timing.On this basis,this article also summarizes the six factors that affect small states' diplomatic strategies,namely the international system,national interests,national strength,geographical location,cultural factors,and national leaders.No matter which diplomatic strategy to choose,we need to carry out comprehensive analysis and discussion from above aspects,instead of making choices lightly based on one aspect.Based on the theoretical analysis of the small states' diplomatic strategy,this article takes Philippines as an example to discuss the changes of its diplomatic strategy.By sorting out the history of Philippines' foreign relations,the author summarized the following three main diplomatic strategies:the close ally relations with the United States,the importance of regional forces,and the strengthening of peripheral cooperation;balancing the development of diplomacy.From the beginning of independence,the"one-sided" pro-American route was changed to return to the Asia-Pacific region,attach importance to the periphery,and now the more significant major country balance strategy,this series of behaviors all reflect the change of the Philippines' national interests.In addition to this factor,other factors such as the international system,national strength,leadership,culture,geographical environment and other factors also played an important role.In addition to the introduction,this paper is divided into four parts.The first part briefly discusses several diplomatic strategies adopted by small states.The second part analyzes the main factors that influence the choice of small states' diplomatic strategy.The third part,taking Philippines as an example,discusses the change of diplomatic strategy and its influencing factors since its independence,and provides case support for the paper.The fourth part is the summary of the full text.