Chapter Introduction

Overview & Synopsis

This book analyses the foreign policy and science diplomacy models of ten Northern European countries, focusing on the Baltic Sea and European Arctic regions. Through a comparative, regionally grounded approach spanning post-Cold War developments to current geopolitical tensions, the volume analyses each country’s foreign policy framework alongside its science diplomacy model — covering normative foundations, institutional mechanisms, and strategic priorities. This book draws attention to how small- and medium-sized states deploy science diplomacy not only as a tool of soft power and cooperation, but increasingly as a strategic resource in a competitive, security-conscious global environment. It goes beyond a mere examination of official documents and the activities of institutions and governmental bodies, particularly Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Science, responsible for shaping and implementing foreign and science policies. Rather, the study also takes into account the engagement of a broader and more diverse group of stakeholders. By integrating foreign policy analysis with science diplomacy models, the volume provides a comparative and policy-relevant perspective for understanding how scientific collaboration shapes international relations and regional governance. This book will be of much interest to students of diplomacy studies, foreign policy, European politics, and international relations.