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Explaining Myanmar's policy of non-alignment: an analytic eclecticism approach
[journal article]
Abstract
This article presents a theoretical explanation for Myanmar's persistent and consistent choice of non-aligned foreign policy since independence in 1948. It focuses on exploring multiple causal factors in search for a comprehensive explanation, inspired by the analytic eclectic approach, including (1... view more
This article presents a theoretical explanation for Myanmar's persistent and consistent choice of non-aligned foreign policy since independence in 1948. It focuses on exploring multiple causal factors in search for a comprehensive explanation, inspired by the analytic eclectic approach, including (1) geopolitical factors, (2) domestic factors, and (3) ideational factors, informed by neorealist, neo-classical realist, and social constructivist insights, respectively. Being a small country surrounded by big powers during the Cold War, struggling with internal conflicts, both ethnic and ideological, and guided by the Buddhist philosophy of the middle way, the newly established government of Myanmar chose non-alignment. Successive governments went between activism and passivism in their foreign policy and maintained the stance of non-alignment. This article argues that non-alignment could be a logical choice for weak powers such as those striving to find their way amid the ever-intensifying strategic rivalry between the USA and China.... view less
Keywords
foreign policy; geopolitics; international relations; international politics; domestic policy; cause; Myanmar
Classification
International Relations, International Politics, Foreign Affairs, Development Policy
Free Keywords
Bestimmungsfaktoren; Bestimmungsfaktoren der Außenpolitik; Blockfreiheit; Einflussgröße; Geopolitische Faktoren; Innenpolitische Faktoren
Document language
English
Publication Year
2021
Page/Pages
p. 379-399
Journal
Journal of Current Southeast Asian Affairs, 40 (2021) 3
ISSN
1868-4882
Status
Published Version; peer reviewed