Politics and Society - rubric International policy

Abstract: This article discusses the key vectors of humanitarian cooperation between Russia and the European Union in the area of science in the first quarter of the XXI century. Italy as the EU member-state with high scientific capacity manifests as a direct subject for the analysis of peculiarities of this cooperation. The selected chronology is substantiated by the fact that most intensive cooperation between Russia and EU in humanitarian sphere falls on that period. Determination of the key vectors of cooperation between Russia and Italy in the XXI century allows tracing the dynamics of Russia-EU relations in the indicated field at the current stage. The scientific novelty is defined by the absence of research dedicated to international cooperation of Russia and Italy. The following conclusions are formulated: 1) since 2012 there is observed a certain decline in the intensity of scientific and technical cooperation between Russia and EU due to political contradictions that aggravated after 2014; 2) at the same time, the foundation formed in the previous decades allowed transferring the scientific and technical cooperation from the political level into the practical, namely to the sphere of direct interaction between the Russian scholars from the EU member-states (including Italian); 3) a crucial role was played by the nonprofit sector and large enterprises that are interested in the advancement of innovations; 4) therefore, namely the contacts between universities, research centers, innovation organizations, and scholars may become the foundation for the development of comprehensive cooperation between Russia and the European Union. The obtained experience demonstrates that many crucial steps in this direction have already been taken.

Keywords: Russian universities, scientific field, programs of the European Union, humanitarian cooperation, Italy, Russia, European Union, scientific internships, scientific conferences, scientific research

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2023.3.43814

Abstract: This article analyses the current state of affairs on creating "legal certainty" for economic entities in exploring, mining, using, and appropriating space resources. This study uses a parallel analysis of various events (legal, political, and economic ones) in the regulation of the extraction of space resources, as well as relevant legal acts. The studied sources are relevant acts of international and national space law, "gray" literature, and Russian and foreign publications. The transformation of international ideas about the possibility of national and/or private appropriation of space resources is proposed to be considered not only based on an analysis of norms and doctrine but also by considering various countries' institutional changes and technological achievements. The theoretical question of ownership of extraterrestrial resources and territories, discussed since the early 1960s, has moved from the distant future to the present. The current international space law seems insufficiently unambiguous for private companies and therefore requires clarification. However, the pace of modernizing international law lags behind the needs of the development of the space economy and needs to meet the interests of space investors and entrepreneurs. It is concluded that the chain of events of 2014–2022 testifies to the concerted actions of a group of countries aimed at deliberately forming an international legal custom—the source of international space law. It is shown that the adoption of a universal decision shared by all states in the field of space resources is hampered by the existence of equally significant but competing legal principles. Today, economic challenges are decisive in developing international space law: legal certainty in the extraction of space resources is necessary to ensure the economic priority and competitiveness of technologically advanced states in space.

Keywords: adaptive regulation, COPUOS, outer space treaty, international space law, space economy, space resources appropriation, space resources mining, space resources exploration, space resources, customary international law

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2022.3.39211

Abstract: The subject of the study is the image of BRICS in the Argentine and Mexican media. In the modern world, the role of multilateral institutions, including the BRICS group, is increasing. In 2022, Argentina applied to join the BRICS. In the context of the restructuring of the entire architecture of the system of international relations, the development of cooperation with the "Global South", as the leader of which the BRICS is positioned, seems extremely relevant for many countries of the world. In turn, such cooperation is impossible without the formation and strengthening of a positive image of BRICS in developing countries, among which Latin American states play an important role. The research is based on a constructivist methodology, according to which the image of the state or other political actor is a social construct created discursively. The purpose of the article is to identify the specifics of the image of the BRICS in the Argentine and Mexican media. The chronological framework of the study includes the period from 2014 to 2022. Research method: content analysis. The author comes to the following conclusions. Firstly, the image of BRICS in the Argentine and Mexican media is mostly positive. In addition to informational messages, they publish analytical materials in which BRICS is considered as one of the influential actors in global politics. Secondly, the range of opinions and assessments of BRICS in the sources is heterogeneous, which speaks, first of all, about the pluralism of Latin American media. The sources considered pay great attention to Brazil as the only Latin American country that is part of the BRICS, and Argentina as the only Spanish-speaking country that is preparing to become a member of the BRICS.

Keywords: Mexico, Argentina, Latin American media, mass media, international organizations, multilateral institutions, BRICS, Latin America, image, the image of BRICS

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2023.4.69123

Abstract: The article analyzes the anti-Russian sanctions regime imposed by Europe and the United States in the field of space cooperation. As a result, space became involved in a geopolitical confrontation, which was not observed during the Cold War. The purpose of the article is to understand the features and consequences of the sanctions regime in relation to international scientific and economic cooperation with Russia's participation in the space sphere. The article claims that the sanctions regime in the space sphere of international cooperation is characterized by specifics. It consists in supplementing Western sanctions with measures that Russia has taken on its part to withdraw from some international scientific and technical projects. Special attention was paid to the study of the negative consequences of sanctions, which consist in complicating the synergy of efforts so necessary to make a cardinal breakthrough in the space sphere in the interests of all mankind. General scientific methods of analysis and synthesis, abstraction and generalization were used. This made it possible to move from diverse empirical data to theoretical generalizations about the nature and models of sanctions regimes against the Russian space industry and space science. In addition to this, a comparative approach was used, as well as a modeling method and a forecasting method. The novelty of the study lies in the fact that in it the event analysis of the confrontation in the context of the "sanctions – counter-sanctions" bundle is built in the context of the theory of sanctions in the field of science and technology. In addition, the problems of Western sanctions in relation to Russia's participation in international cooperation are shown against the background of an objective trend of fragmentation of international cooperation in the field of space. The main conclusion of the work is the position on the radicalism of Europe in severing ties with Russia and the cautious approach of the United States. It is demonstrated that considering the current situation through the prism of the concept of scientific and technical isolation of Russia in the space sphere is an exaggeration. The study showed that the damage caused by sanctions and counter-sanctions in relation to the Russian space industry, as well as in relation to world cosmonautics and space science is not catastrophic. At the same time, the current situation stimulates Russia's proactive scientific and technical policy at the national and international levels.

Keywords: international cooperation, globalization, program cooperation, Russian countermeasures, autarky, space research, anti-Russian sanctions, space race, competition, technological sovereignty

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2018.4.26108

Abstract: This article examines the questions of the impact of sociocultural grounds upon international relations, particularly the relationship between Russia and the European Union. The author considers the effect of cultural-value orientations upon establishing the relationship between the actors of world politics; reveals that in modern world the most effective instrument of international relations is the establishment of cultural links between the countries; demonstrates how the cultural diplomacy and extensive cultural connections between the countries assist the formation of a positive image of the corresponding countries, decrease the level of conflicts between the interacting state, as well as contribute to the mutual understanding between the nations. The article traces a brief history of the emergence of EU alongside the history of its relations with Russia. The author reveals and compares the potential paths of development of Russia’s politics, as well as underlines that Russia has no actual alternatives to its cooperation with the European Union. Relevance of this research is substantiate by the presence of severe problems in modern relation between the Russian Federation and the European Union. Examination of the sociocultural grounds of EU-Russian relations allows finding the ways for settling the existing conflicts. At the present time, the key method of possible resolution of the conflict between the Russian Federation and the European Union lies in the establishment of cultural connections that in future can result in formation of the common sociocultural Russia-European space.

Keywords: russia-eu common space, Russia, common cultural space, international relations, cultural integration, culture, European Union, state interests, russia-eu relations, sociocultural relations

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2018.8.27270

Abstract: This article is dedicated to the examination of the effect of sociocultural foundations upon the pace and character of the relationship between the countries. The key place in this work belongs to the role of theoretical grounds and practical aspects of sociocultural foundations of the relations between Russia and the European Union. It is demonstrated that currently the culture is the pivotal element within the integral system of the European Union, as well as its relations with Russia. Analyzing the impact of the culture upon the establishment and maintenance of Russia-European Union relations, the author underlines that the cultural diplomacy along with the establishment of cultural ties are the most efficient instruments in the modern world politics. The relevance of this research is substantiated by the presence of a serious crisis in Russia-European Union relations. Elucidating and comparing the possible vectors of development of Russian policy, the author underlines that there are no realistic alternatives to the Russia-European Union cooperation, and the betterment of relations between them can form upon creation and advancement of a common Russian – European sociocultural space.

Keywords: Russia-Europe common space, Russia, national interests, international relations, cultural integration, culture, common cultural space, European Union, Russia-Europe relations, sociocultural ties

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2019.3.29876

Abstract: The subject of this research is the European Neighborhood Policy; the object is the Mediterranean partnership as one of the priority results and instruments. Special attention is given to the factors confirming the EU wields and realizes the normative-ideological hegemony in the region. It namely refers to the peculiarities of perception of Mediterranean Sea in EU, unique capabilities of the neighborhood policy, and normative force as a specific modus of EU soft power in the international arena. An attempt is made to clarify the structure of such hegemony for overcoming skepticism and underestimation of the European Neighborhood Policy. The author analyzes the texts of European action plans for the member-states of Mediterranean partnership. The analysis is based in the concept of the forms of impact of the European normative force proposed by Lisbeth Aggestam, as well as discourse analysis in the version of Teun A. van Dijk. In conclusion, the author establishes that the structure of such hegemony consists of the four discursive practices, examined and described in accordance with a set of parameters. This, in turn, allowed analyzing the very structure of the EU regional hegemony. The author determines the currently the indicated hegemony undergoes transformation that would lead to increased presence of the European Union in the member-states of the Union for the Mediterranean.

Keywords: North Africa, Middle East, discourse analysis, normative power of Europe, Mediterranean partnership, EU Neighborhood Policy, EU, hegemony, crisis, normative approach

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2018.11.27948

Abstract: The subject of this research is the EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy until 2016. The object of this research is the “soft security” of the European Union as the new form of security in the XXI century due to deviation from the traditional understanding of security exclusively in the military aspect and emergence of the new nontraditional aspects that significantly affect security – economy, energy, migration, cybersecurity, terrorism. The article provides the analysis of conceptual framework of “soft security” in the context of Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy until 2016. The method of induction allowed shifting from separate factors to general positions; content analysis of the EU Global Strategy until 2016 helped to determine the importance of “soft security” for the modern European system of security. The author analyzes the EU perspective on “soft security” for the modern system of European security, as well as draws conclusion on the substantial changes in the security environment of the European continent, significance of development of the new mechanisms, tools and vectors of ensuring soft security in the pan-European realm.

Keywords: cooperation, soft power, challenge, threat, Global Strategy, soft security, security, European Union, neighborhood countries, European values

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2017.6.22701

Abstract: The subject of the study is the current stage of Russian-Azerbaijani relations at the interstate level. The authors examined and analyzed the main spheres of cooperation between the two states, such as economic, energy, military-political, humanitarian and cultural, in order to track the evolution of the Azerbaijani-Russian relations from the moment of their formation, and also to show the transition to a new, higher-quality level of development , Reflected in the foreign policy strategies of the two states, in addition, the authors give a brief description of the state of bilateral relations in the post-Soviet period. The authors used general scientific methods, namely: analysis, synthesis, comparative analysis as the main method of studying specific foreign policy initiatives of Azerbaijan and Russia, as well as the principle of objectivity, which helped to identify the main trends in the development of bilateral Azerbaijani-Russian cooperation. Using the system-analytical method, the concrete results of the agreements on strategic partnership in various fields have been evaluated. Combination of these methods allow identifying that beginning from 2000's, Russia and Azerbaijan have systematically reached the level of strategic partnership. The importance of interstate cooperation is supported by the corresponding statements the leaders of both states, intergovernmental visits and meetings at the highest level, as well as particular foreign policy steps. Assessing the full extent of cooperation in various fields, it can be said that Russia and Azerbaijan have a good reserve for further development of bilateral relations, even despite some problematic areas.

Keywords: humanitarian relations, international cooperation, energy relations, political relations, economic relations, Azerbaijan, Russia, military cooperation, interstate cooperation, cultural relations

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2017.3.22416

Abstract: The subject of this research is the Eurasian economic and political organizations, such as Shanghai Cooperation Organization and Eurasian Economic Union. The object of this research is the modern aspects of their activity in the context of growing importance of the Eurasian economic and political space. The author thoroughly examines the importance of Eurasian integration since it reflects the unity of the Eurasian nations, their interethnic solidarity, and multiculturalism. It is specifically underlined that the similar to SCO and EAEU organizations can be named as innovation cultural-economic and political program, which predicts the future state of social life that actively influence the social sphere they emerge in. The article determines that Shanghai Cooperation Organization and Eurasian Economic Union solve the analogous economic and political tasks, however the composition of the member-state alongside the direct goals of these organization differ in many ways. This work represents a brief comparative analysis of the SCO and EAEU activity within the framework of establishment and development of the Eurasian economic and political space. The conclusion is dame that currently, within SCO and EAEU, there have been forming the new projects carrying the integration potential. In future, if keeping the same development rate and accepting the new member-states, these organization can move to a new level of geopolitical and economic impact in the multipolar world.

Keywords: Integration potential, Multipolar world, Multiculturalism, Eurasian choice, Geopolitical union, Eurasian political space, Eurasian economic space, Eurasian integration, Eurasian Economic Union, Shanghai Cooperation Organization

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2023.3.43803

Abstract: The relevance of this study is that due to the conditions of the globalization of the world economy and the development of international commercial turnover, the importance of international commercial arbitration is rapidly increasing. There is also complexity and ambiguity in understanding the legal category of "public order" because this institution is not a definitively regulated area of law enforcement in the modern legal order. This article’s research object is the social relations arising through the activities of arbitration courts in international commercial turnover. This work aims to identify the procedures, mechanisms, and features of applying the public policy clause in recognizing and enforcing international commercial arbitration decisions. When writing this article, both general scientific research methods, including analysis, synthesis, deduction, and induction, and special methods of cognition, such as comparative legal and descriptive methods, were used. One of the main methods in this work is comparative law, as it helps identify the similarities and differences of the legal systems under consideration, which are the subject of the study. The novelty lies in consideration of the correlation of issues concerning the legal nature of "public order," as well as the analysis of cases related to the procedure of refusal to recognize and enforce decisions of international commercial arbitration in the territory of a foreign state based on contradiction to public order. In the course of the study, the following conclusions were made. The complex problems that have formed in this area are almost impossible to solve by signing and putting into effect a single normative legal act at an international level. The list of cases applying this legal category in arbitration activities is non-exhaustive. The public policy clause is one of the most important components of the institutions of private international law. The institution of public order has an extraordinary character in the decisions of international commercial arbitration.

Keywords: international law, public law, arbitration, arbitration court, Russia, the civil code, commercial law, private law, right, international relations

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2018.4.26107

Abstract: The subject of this research is the formation by European Commission of the basics EU’s activity in the area of energy. The object of this research is the presented by European Commission in February 2015 Message to the European Parliament, EU Council, and European Economic and Social Committee, Regional Committee and European Investment Bank about the EU Energy Package. The framework strategy for the solid European Energy Union with the promising policy concerning the climate change. Particular attention is given to examination of the five synergistic and interrelated estimations of the activity of European Commission in the context of the European Energy Union. The main conclusion lies in the thesis that the purpose of the European Energy Union lies in satisfaction of the demand for energy products of each consumer of the European Union from the standpoint of choice, volume, quality and affordable price through the establishment of a single domestic energy market. The scientific novelty consists in determination of regulations of the framework strategy of the European Energy Union affecting the interests of Russia, which indicate the need for preparation by the European Commission by May 2018 of model agreement between the EU member-states and the third countries on the energy issues.

Keywords: strategy, union, energy, European Commission, EU Member States, European Union, consumers, market, innovation, solidarity

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2021.4.37116

Abstract: This article is dedicated to examination of the modern stages of transformation of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and Mongolia. The subject of this research is the political interaction of Mongolia and the Republic of Korea over the period from 1990 to 2020. The goal lies in the analysis of crucial aspects of the high-level Mongolian-South Korean visits, as well as determination of the key stages in the development of bilateral relations over the period from 1990 to 2020. Research methodology leans on the historical-retrospective method, which allowed tracing the vector and dynamics of the development of relations between the Republic Korea and Mongolia, as well as chronological method aimed at outlining the stages of establishment and development of cooperation and fundamental changes thereof. The scientific novelty lies in the fact that this topic is poorly studied, It is revealed that over the past 30 years, Mongolian-South Korean relations have taken a new leap 4 times. In 1999, the visit of the Korean Leader Kim Dae-jung to Mongolia lead to the establishment of "complementary cooperation" between the two countries; in 2006; visit of the Korean President Roh Moo-hyun to Mongolia in 2006 marks consolidation of the status of “friendly nations”; in 2011, the Presidents Lee Myung-bak and Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj announced the transition to a "comprehensive partnership". In 2021, the Republic of Korea and Mongolia agreed upon propelling the bilateral relations to the level of strategic partnership, which made South Korea the sixth country to achieve a high status of bilateral relations.

Keywords: foreign policy, cooperation, international relations, strategic partnership, intergovernmental exchanges, Republic of Korea, Mongolia, bilateral relations, diplomacy, third neighbor

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2018.8.27037

Abstract: The subject of this research is geopolitics of the United States with regards to the countries of Central Asia. The object of this research is the countries of Central Asia. Since the XVIII century, the Central Asia region has been a geopolitical object of global importance. Thus, one of the key reasons of US-Russian contention accompanied by large conflicts and chaos was the contest for Central and South Asia. Attention is given to theoretical substantiation of the positions and status of the countries of Central Asia region in geopolitics of the United States. The author underlines the theoretical comprehension of the region from the two opposing positions: on one hand – the “geopolitics of Atlanticists”, and on the other – the “geopolitics of Eurasia”. The positions of the United States strengthen after dissolution of the Soviet Union, which allowed to unstintingly structure the policy, implementing its projects of the republics of Central Asia. Currently, the geopolitical status of Central Asia region has changed; namely, its role on the international arena has been increasing, which affected the national policy of the countries.

Keywords: eurasism, atlanticism, continental powers, historical doctrines, national interest, geopolitical object, Central Asia, geopolicy, USA, Kygyzstan

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.1.9788

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.1.54179

Abstract: The author f the article views the nature and mechanism of formation of relations in the international integration associations in the light of the system approach. The author shows that integration relations are formed at all levels of a social association as a result of mutual interests and social contacts between actors. The processes of generalization, unifi cation and correspondence of interests have a common goal which is the sustainable development of the social integration. In the social reality interests are the expression of the universal ‘cause-and-effect’ relations lying in the basis of functioning and developmental relations of social systems. At the integration association, functional relations and developmental relations are expressed in the form of commodity and fi nancial fl ows that are directed in accordance with economic relations of economic relations. These fl ows create the global network of value chains and cross-investments. International fl ows of half-fi nished products produced by the manufacturing industry circulate between the industrialized countries and therefore create close relations between them. This triggers unifi cation of national technical standards, encourages international cooperation in science and technology, harmonizes the legal regulation guidelines and associated economic relations and so on. Thereupon particular industries of partner countries merge together and create integrate international reproduction complexes. Such merging of highly developed national economies at the microeconomic level creates the need for coordination of the foreign trade, taxation and credit macroeconomic policies of integrated states and establish effi cient payment, taxation and currency unions and common markets as well as interstate integration institutions. The process of formation of integration relations is illustrated by the examples from modern experience in international integration.

Keywords: international integration, regional integration associatoins, integration relations, social interests, complementarity of economic systems, value chains, integrative trade, correspondence of interests, international cooperation, international reproduction complexes.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2017.11.24567

Abstract: The subject of this research is the opposition of global federations of trade unions that are an industry branch of the world trade union movement to the practice of implementation by the multinational corporations of precarious work and other forms of social dumping, which represents a threat to exercising of the socioeconomic rights of employees. The object of this research is the world trade union movement as a participant of international relations. The author analyzes the experience of holding by the International Transport Workers' Federation – the leading global federation of the transport workers of campaigns against the “flags of convenience” as a form of counteracting the social dumping in the branch of maritime traffic. The article also examines the evolution of applied forms and methods of work throughout over 50 years of experience in holding the campaigns. The main conclusion lies in the need for expanding the range of countermeasure of all branches of the world trade union movement against social dumping considering the acquired experience. The author’s special contribution consists in generalization of practice of opposition of the International Transport Workers' Federation in the course of running campaigns against the “flags of convenience” to the forms of social dumping by the multinational corporations.

Keywords: Maritime traffic, Social partnership, Socioeconomic rights, Social dumping, Precarious work, Multinational corporations, Trade union campaigns, International Transport Workers’ Federation, Global federations of trade unions, World trade union movement

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2018.12.28098

Abstract: The subject of this research is the various foreign policy concepts of the Presidents of the United States B. Obama and D. Trump alongside the White House administrations, which shape the country’s state policy ultimately reflected in the US National Security Strategies (2010, 2015, 2017) that signify the shift of the United States towards the unipolar worlds and entering the path of hegemonism, search for the efficient leadership behavioral models, change the foreign policy mentality of the nation, acknowledge versatility of the world, continue the evolution of US power with regards to transformation of the global geopolitical system. The scientific novelty consists in the comprehensive understanding of the fundamental shifts in US policy after the end of the cold war, as well as in pursuance of the new role in the world following the lead of Bill Clinton, George W. Bush , Barack Obama, Donald Trump and the standing behind them powers that test the various foreign policy principles, concepts, approaches and leadership models for over a quarter of a century. Each president, on the background of differences in the methods of domestic policy, conducts their foreign policy course, an objective assessment of which in the global political flow will only be given by time.

Keywords: armed forces, terrorism, strategic partnership, Donald Trump, Barack Obama, National Security Strategy, US Congress, american leadership, cyberspace, great power competition

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.1.54180

Abstract: The article is devoted to special features of Russia-Pakistan cooperation at modern international organizations. The period under consideration (from 1991 till 2013) is signifi ed with the establishment and development of new approaches to interstate relations between these two countries. The end of the ear, the breakdown of the USSR and formation of new states in the Central Asia had a dominant infl uence on the two-way and versatile development of relations between the countries of the Central Asia and South Asia. Regional security threats were escalated, Pakistan and India became nuclear nations, the Afghan problem fi nally turned into the international center of tension, terroristic danger, global production of drugs and drug trade. New international organizations have appeared lately and participation in or cooperation with these organizations have become an important step towards development of international relations. Russia and Pakistan gradually expand the scope of their cooperation within the framework of performance of the existing international organizations. A bright example is the cooperation between Russia and Pakistan through Shanghai Cooperation Organization and Organization of Islamic Cooperation as well as possibilities for their cooperation through the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. A signifi cant factor of Russia – Pakistan relations is the constant mutual work as the Dushanbe Four. In this regard, the author of the article touches upon the problems of regional security and leverages over the situation through building up mutually benefi cial cooperation at international organizations. At the end of the article the author concludes that these relations still have much potential to explore and have all chances to further grow and develop.

Keywords: international terrorism, heroine aggression, Friends of Democratic Pakistan, regional security threats, Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Dushanbe Four, CIS, international relations, Intergovernmental Commission, large-scale development.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2018.1.25231

Abstract: The subject of this research is the role of African Union in humanitarian sphere and its relevant contribution into ensuring humanitarian security in the region of Tropical Africa. The goal of this work is the versatile assessment of genesis of the humanitarian security concept, the existing legal and institutional frame of African Union, as well as the operating capabilities on responding to various threats to humanitarian security emerging in the Sub-Saharan Africa. Using the comparative-historical method, the author analyze the emergence and development of the humanitarian security concept at the UN level and Organization of African Unity / African Union respectively. The typological method helps to consider the main groups of threats to humanitarian security. The article also applies the comparative method. The policy of responding of the African Union to the current complex humanitarian crises is being examined. The scientific novelty consists in the following results: 1) the potential of African Union in the area of ensuring humanitarian security in Africa depends is developed unevenly; at the same time, the most influential are the developed by African Union legal mechanisms of protecting the personal and social rights; 2) the efficiency of policy of the European Union aimed at maintaining the humanitarian security depends on multiple factors, primarily the financial capacity of the Union, level of coordination of its action with other international organizations; nature of the crisis. The main conclusion consists in the thesis that despite the objective difficulties, African Union plays a key role in ensuring humanitarian security in the Sub-Saharan Africa.

Keywords: Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Campala Convention, forced migration, complex emergency, humanitarian security, African Union, Central African Republic, Somalia, food security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2018.1.25279

Abstract: The subject of this article is the examination of genesis, history of development and evolution of the relations between the United States and Pakistan at different stages of contemporary history in the context of war in Afghanistan. First and foremost, the author reviews the impact of Islamabad’s policy upon the situation in the neighboring Afghanistan during the active phase of the armed conflicts (2001-2008). The war in Afghanistan became the first large armed conflict of the XXI century. Terrorist acts on September 11, 2001 against the United Stated were the major attach of the terrorist underground in history. The response to the Al-Qaeda attack became the military campaign against the organizations of terrorist acts who found asylum in Afghanistan. For the objective scientific-historical study was used an entire set of methodologies, including narrative, historical-genetic, historical-system, as well as anthropological and sociological. This work is the first comprehensive research within the Russian historiography aimed at examination of the impact of Pakistan–United States relations and Islamabad’s policy upon the situation in Afghanistan in 2001-2008, demonstrating the role of “Pakistani factor” in development of the military-political processes in Afghanistan.

Keywords: history, The Middle East, Al-Qaeda, Taliban, Pakistan, terrorism, United States, Afghanistan, East, science

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2016.2.12326

Abstract: The subject of this research is the regional integrational processes and the key regional integrational unions in the modern world: European Union, MERCOSUR, CIS, Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, and North American Free Trade Agreement. A constructive theoretical understanding of the integrational processes is closely connected to the analysis of the European integration which for a long time was an example followed by other integrations. However, with the appearance of the new regional integrational unions in the other parts of the world and the established political and economic issues of the EU, emerges a question of canonicity of the said integrational project. The author makes a conclusion that integration should not be narrowed down to the only EU style and consider the rest as an unworthy “initiative” that is doomed to assimilate with the European type of integration or die before being accomplished. The absence of the canonic standard of integration can serve as alternative option. This analysis represents an applied importance for the post-Soviet space with such dying integrational union as CIS and the newly formed Eurasian Economic Union. The author believes that it is important to base on the experience of the Western and Eastern countries in development of the integrational project, but take into account the uniqueness of a certain region and goals of the participants.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2016.2.54517

Keywords: integratsionnye ob'edineniya, integratsionnye protsessy, ES, NAFTA, MERKOSUR, integratsiya ES, integratsiya, mezhdunarodnye otnosheniya

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.2.10164

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.2.54194

Abstract: The purpose of the preset article is to reveal the main peculiarities of the Russian-Brazilian relations being developed by the means of public diplomacy. The subject matter of the research is the public diplomacy in the Russian-Brazilian relations. Unlike propaganda carried on by the government and governmental agencies (quite often the term ‘propaganda’ has a negative meaning such as disinformation and misinterpretation of facts), public diplomacy is viewed as the dissemination of positive information based on the actual state of affairs. Consequently, the effect and results of public diplomacy can be of more importance and duration than when traditional propaganda methods and techniques of infl uencing the public opinion are being used. Despite the fact that the term ‘public’ or ‘social’ diplomacy has been introduced into scientifi c use just recently, particular elements of this phenomena have been already present at different stages of the foreign policy activities performed by the Russian state. From this point of view, the analysis of using public diplomacy in the relations between Russia and Brazil is appealing. At the end of his research article the author concludes that today’s public diplomacy is the most important component of the ‘soft power’ indicated in Russia’s external policy concept. The conductors of this policy are usually public organizations and civic institutions. In the Russian-Brazilian relations public diplomacy is highly effi cient because ancient traditions of cultural ties between these two countries created a fertile ground for such bilateral relations.

Keywords: international relations, politics, law, public diplomacy, Russia, Brazil, soft power, humanitarian cooperation, cultural ties, values.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.2.13914

Abstract: The article presents a conceptual author's view on the current topic related to the change of the political regime in the Ukraine and the role of the United States of America in this process. The object of research is the technology of the regime change and manipulation of consciousness used by the US to implement its own foreign policy strategy. The subject of research is the use of such technologies in the Ukraine. The novelty of the research lies in the innovative approach of the authors to the actual problem which is associated with the dismantling of the political regime in the Ukraine.

Keywords: interests, state, political regime, political instability, geopolitics, USA, society, politics, values, security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.2.54347

Keywords: interests, state, political regime, political instability, geopolitics, USA, society, politics, values, security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.3.11531

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.3.54209

Abstract: Even though they were first created as the national phenomenon, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GLONASS) have been providing navigation services to international consumers for quite a long time. GLONASS became part of all the key branches of international economy. Noteworthy that the critical dependence of social and economic infrastructure of developed countries on their stable and sustainable functioning and development makes the largest international actors either to develop alternative American GPS systems controlled by the United States Department of Defense and global systems (Galileo in the EU, Compass in the PRC, GLONASS in Russia) or seek for cooperation with the USA. The author of the present article describes the relation between national and international security and GLONASS as the dominant of the modern global political process. The author also analyzes the structure of the main World Food Programs in terms of the global development of these systems. Methodological basis of research is the paradigm of political neo realism from the point of view of national security and associated international activity aimed at providing national security through using/implementing GLONASS. Speaking of the main conclusions made by the author and the structure of actors of the global political process as the part of development of GLONASS, it is necessary to admit that the greatest activity is viewed at the sovereign level but not global or regional levels. Despite the fact that today GLONASS does not function in the international law environment, their activity is still within the sight of the actors of the global political process, first of all, United Nations and its official departments and organizations (ICAO, IMO, ITU and etc.). Nevertheless, taking into account current tendencies in the development of global international relations, active role of the UN institution may decrease.

Keywords: GLONAS, global political process, international security, United Nations, international relations, Global Navigation Satellite System, national interests, globalization, GPS, international space law.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.3.9508

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.3.54210

Abstract: Conclusions made within the theories of realism show that against the background of reduced tension between strong actors of international policy, relations between countries with different potentials create different variants of distribution of power and influence in the world. Noteworthy that small states which subjective status has considerably grown over the past decade bring additional variety into international policy, on one hand, and do not allow excessive concentration of power, on the other hand. Basic models of state behavior remain traditional for the realism of the balancing and adjoining policy but they acquire specific features under modern conditions. The main specific feature is the implementation of a rather contradictory policy by small states. This policy is aimed at getting closer to the regional leader and keeping the distance and retaining the region’s freedom at the same time. It is very important to understand that the future confrontation of international environment depends on the results of such external political dualism.

Keywords: political theory, theory of realism, neo-classical realism, balancing behavior, adjoining, small states, integration, economic relations, bilateral conflicts, modern Ministers of Defense.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.3.14401

Abstract: The object of the analysis in the article is globalisation in the field of international relations. The subject of the analysis is the Russian-American relations in the context of globalisation. Different interpretations of the concept of globalisation are provided. The influence of globalisation on the international activity of Russia is analysed. The article deals with the sources of globalism, which were formed after World War II, as well as their transformation into the modern concept of American exclusiveness. The part and the place of liberalism in the formation of the modern intergovernmental relation system have been shown. The place that the Western countries assign to Russia in the modern world architecture is outlined. Statements and speeches of the representatives which led to the modern crisis in the international relations have been comparatively analysed. The conclusion about the “cold war” unceasing has been drawn. The Western States sought to force out the Russian Federation in every possible way from the decisive positions when forming the modern world process. Modern globalisation presents only the veiled form of the up-dated American world supremacy. The author has formulated the causes of the modern International relation aggravations.

Keywords: hegemony, American domination, civilisational development, globalism, geopolitics, “cold war”, International relations, liberalism, world leadership, national interests

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.3.54363

Keywords: hegemony, American domination, civilisational development, globalism, geopolitics, “cold war”, International relations, liberalism, world leadership, national interests

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.3.14588

Abstract: The article considers some issues of modern processes of regionalization in Central Asia as a possibility of regional self-identification in the new context. Different starting economic development potential of the newly independent States has determined the strategy of inter-state relations. Special attention is paid to the analysis of the political situation in the region after the collapse of the USSR in the context of the disputed territories and joint water use of transboundary rivers.Unfair, from the point of view of the Central Asian countries, division of state borders, conducted in Soviet times, still hampers building up a full-fledged cooperation with the neighbors in the region. Border conflicts often end in armed clashes. Water and energy resources are also an important factor in the Central Asian interaction, which leads to an open confrontation between the upstream and the downstream countries on the issues of hydropower potential use.In the article factor analysis and interdisciplinary approach to the study of the intra-regional conflicts of transboundary water resource use is applied. Different attempts of interstate collaboration and causes hampering this process are considered. The negative role of border, energy and water conflicts in regional cooperation is reflected in the article. The study of transformation processes in Central Asia makes it possible to state that the political and economic development of the countries is uneven, inconsistent, and is formed on the basis of objective and subjective factors. The low degree of intra-regional cooperation beyond integration associations leads to economic and political dependence of each country on the influential global actors.

Keywords: international organizations, border conflicts, regionalization, problems of transboundary rivers, area, transformation, Central Asia, integration, conflict of interest, international relations

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.3.54364

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.4.11730

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.4.54216

Abstract: Creation of many international relations has become possible due to the consensus of the world community regarding inadmissibility of wars between states. Creation of nuclear weapon made the open war between states with nuclear potentials impossible. Creation of the United Nations had the purpose to reinforce the established world order and avoid new conflicts. Unfortunately, the second half of the 20th century showed that those measures could not solve all the contradictions that appeared after the Second World War was over. In today’s changing world ethno-political conflicts are becoming more and more possible. Many countries face the creation of nationalist movements as a response to globalization processes. Societies demonstrate intolerance and hostility more often and this, of course, create grounds for future ethnopolitical conflicts which, in its turn, create one of the most serious threats for the humankind. The role of international organizations in prevention and resolution of such conflicts will be only increasing because today it is already impossible to imagine the world community remaining uninvolved when events resulting in numerous victims happen. Such organizations as the United Nations still have plenty of possibilities and powers even despite protracted crises experienced by many international organizations.

Keywords: international relations, politics, society, international conflicts, international organizations, conflict resolution, peace keeping, United Nation, ethno-political conflicts, security.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.4.11788

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.4.54217

Abstract: The article contains a geopolitical description of the Caspian Sea basin and its role in the world policy. The author touches upon the problem of the legal status of the Caspian Sea and covers the policy of out-of-region states as well as the fi ve Caspian bordering countries. Today the Caspian Sea basin attracts a great number of both regional and out-of-region states which is due to the wide spread of the supposition about rich oil resources in the region as well as the important geopolitical position of the region. This fact is still the main problem that worries Russia and Iran and a number of other Caspian bordering countries. Theoretical and methodological grounds for studying and analyzing the problems and issues raised in the article include the systems approach applied to studying positions of all actors on the matter as well as the two-way communications between the actors. The goal of the author of the present article is to view the importance of the Caspian Sea region not only from the economic but also from the geopolitical points of view which is due to the important strategic position of the region and the fact that the main routes of transit of hydrocarbon resources come through it. In addition, the author specifi es the key roles of Moscow and Teheran in solution of the problem of establishing the legal status of the Caspian Sea that is discussed not only by Russian and Iran but also a number of other concerned Caspian bordering countries. This is necessary not only to start exploration of the deposit but also to allocate the Caspian Sea to the fi ve bordering territories. The present issue is very important from the point of view of ensuring geopolitical interests of both Russia and Iran. However, one of the factors slowing down the solution of this issue is the position of Iran on the matter. The author will study the position of Iran in the next article as well as positions of other regional and out-of-region states.

Keywords: Russia, USA, Central Asia, out-of-region powers, legal status, oil, Caspian Sea, Iran, world policy, confl ict of interests.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.4.54058

Abstract: The article addresses the effects of modern global processes, including those tied to demographic and economic crises, and draws attention to the fact that no functional national, or International law that regulates these things exists. The author explains the essence of uncontrolled demographic growth, polarization of the world between countries, as well as macroeconomic risks of the world society. One of the rational ways to overcome those challenges is to form a new type of global integration – a world state. The author draws the conclusions on the advantages of such an allencompassing political unification. The points made in this article broaden and enrich the theoretical knowledge of state and Law, as well as international relations.

Keywords: Jurisprudence, global, state, world, crisis, demography, polarization, national, international, politics

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.4.54059

Abstract: At the year 2000 U.N. Millennium Summit, the Millennium Declaration, which contained a set of global Millennium Development Goals, was signed. The eight goals are aimed at the most pressing matters of modern society - poverty, famine, infant and maternal mortality, the spread of diseases like HIV/AIDS and Malaria, gender inequity, environment issues, education accessibility issues, as well as insufficient aid for the least-developed and developing countries from the world community. These Goals were aimed to be achieved by 2015. To get a clear picture on the exact stage of progress towards those goals, the author distinguishes both, regions and subregions on the World map, because social and economic progress is varied even on a regional scale. Currently, less than three years remain till the deadline of 2015, which was established in the Declaration. The progress towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals is evident; however, it is slower than expected. Is there a chance for UN’s most ambitious plan to be successfully completed?

Keywords: Political science, U.N., aims, development, millennium, declaration, aid, donors, poverty, Africa

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.4.54060

Abstract: The article examines the defining characteristics of the Eurasian Economic Community member country relations, as well as arrangements for a transition to a new level of partnership with Common Economic Space. The creation of supernational institutions becomes more important as we move towards the final stages of economic integration of the member states. This study examines the preconditions for in-depth economic integration of the Eurasian Economic Community, taking into account the main driving forces which accelerate this process.

Keywords: Political science, CES, supernational institution, cooperation, WTO, CSTO, SCO

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.4.14955

Abstract: The article investigates the contemporary French policy in Africa (by the example of Cameroon). The method of historical reconstruction allowed the author to clarify the features of the formation of the Republic of Cameroon during the disintegration of the French colonial empire and decolonisation of the African continent. The events preceding the proclamation of sovereignty of Cameroon and the reasons for the lameness and such limited sovereignty have been considered. The emphasis in the article is made on clarifying the role of France in kindling of the civil war in Cameroon, as well as in the suppression of the movement for independence and real sovereignty of the African state. The methodological basis of the article is comprised by system, structural-functional, comparative historical and comparative political approaches, methods of analysis, synthesis, monitoring, reconstruction. The facts of the blatant cruelty in the activities of the French intelligence services and army troops have been analysed, which crushed the resistance of the patriots from the Union of the Peoples of Cameroon and organized brutal killings of leaders of the national liberation movement - Ruben Um Nyobe, Felix-Roland Moumie, and others. The question regarding the political expediency of establishing the Federal Republic of Cameroon in 1961 and the reasons of Cameroon's unification in 1971 has been specifically considered. The conclusion was drawn that the civil war in Cameroon in the period of 1955-1970 was inspired by France and was inceptive of the neo-colonialist policy that was later known as the "Françafrique" policy.

Keywords: Françafrique, Felix Roland Moumie, Ruben Um Nyobe, neo-colonialism, Africa, France, society, politics, Cameroon, security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.4.54375

Keywords: Françafrique, Felix Roland Moumie, Ruben Um Nyobe, neo-colonialism, Africa, France, society, politics, Cameroon, security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.5.12267

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.5.54231

Abstract: Enormous economic resources and a growing political importance of the European Union (EU) used by the EU in its relations with other actors based on the conditionality principle give the EU a signifi cant but quite contradictory potential to infl uence the course of international confl icts. The subject under review of the present research article is the particular features of this potential that are the most pronounced in the EU policy regarding the Israel-Palestine issue. The purpose of research is to identity the problem of the EU infl uence on the confl ict. The EU is trying to make this infl uence through using the conditionality principle. From the point of view of methodology, discussion of this topic within the framework of the present research article involves a detailed analysis of the case study, i.e. initiatives offered by the EU during Israel-Palestine negotiations in 2013-2014. Based on the results of the research, the author shows that despite the unprecedented boldness of initiatives and a great infl uence potential of the EU, the EU did not manage to use the conditionality principle effi ciently and bring the parties to a compromise. As before, the EU did not use the conditionality principle successively in its relations with both parties and therefore damaged its infl uence on both parties and did not take into account particular features of the confl ict. Results of the research can make a contribution to both understanding this particular direction of the EU policy (which is a very important but insuffi ciently studied direction of the EU policy) and understanding particular features of the EU as an international actor.

Keywords: European Union, external activity of the EU, conditionality, Israel-Palestine issue, Middle East issue, peace process, international confl icts, resolution of confl icts, negotiations, mediation.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.5.54071

Abstract: This article analyzes the geopolitical, social and economical aspects of Russian foreign policy at the example of the Eurasian Economic Union, and characterizes world community trends under the influence of the process of forming a new world order. The author states that a new push towards changing the global paradigm was given before the 2007-2008 economiccrisis. The crisis shook the utopic belief of the victorious liberalism in a crisis-less development in global post-industrial world.

Keywords: Political science, national security, politics, society, modernization, federalism, Russia, integration, post-Soviet space, national interests

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2016.5.18929

Abstract: This article is dedicated to the examination of experience of socialist countries pertaining to the interstate cooperation on the questions of scientific and technological development during the existence of USSR. It is underlined that the interstate relations of socialist countries in the area of science and technology covered the exchange of scientific and technological ideas and experience, execution of scientific research and construction projects based on the various forms of cooperation and labor division, personnel training in the scientific field, etc. The author reveals the peculiarities of classic interaction in the reviewed sphere and cooperation of the socialist countries within the framework of the Council for Mutual Economic Assistance (Comecon). Special attention is given to the direct interaction (both, bilateral and multilateral) between the scientific academies of the socialist camp countries in the area of fundamental natural and social sciences. The article analyzes the main agreements enacted in the scientific and technological sphere, as well as examines the institutional specificities of the created scientific facilities and joint authorities. The author concludes that by 1980 an international institutional structure of scientific cooperation between the scientific academies of socialist countries has been formed within the Eurasian space.

Keywords: natural sciences, social sciences, Academy of Sciences, socialist countries, historical-legal aspect, scientific and technological cooperation, integration, joint research, scientific center, Eurasian space

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2016.5.54558

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.5.13471

Abstract: The article examines the main characteristics, particularities and political problems of integration within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. An important subject area of the research is the analysis of the specific features of relations between the SCO members in the context of their relations with third countries and organisations.The article shows the prospects of the development of the organisation as a regional integrative association under the formation of multipolar world. The article provides a detailed analysis of the key areas of the SCO's activities and their significance for the harmonisation of interests of the states in Central Asia.Methodological basis of the research is comprised by a broad range of scientific tools: comparative analytical method, SWOT analysis, structural-functional and system approaches. To investigate the problems of the establishment of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and the formation of polycentric world, it is necessary to generalise and systematise the facts, based on the study of legal, analytical, historical and other documents, as well as to conduct scientific observation and comparative analysis. The present study has shown that the success of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation under the conditions of formation of polycentric world depends on a complex of factors influencing the course of the political process at different levels of integration in Central Asia. Despite the asymmetry of development due to the pluralism of views and interests, as well as the diversity of the members of the organisation, the most important prerequisite for the SCO's favourable development is the aspiration for the provision of security in Central Asia. This area will be relevant in the long-term. However, for the successful development of the international authority of the organisation, it is necessary to add an economic dimension to the political cooperation within the framework of SCO, observing the principles of the optimal cooperation between Russia and China.

Keywords: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, SCO, international organisations, international relations, integration, politics, Russia, China, Central Asia, globalisation

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.5.54386

Keywords: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, SCO, international organisations, international relations, integration, politics, Russia, China, Central Asia, globalisation

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.5.14381

Abstract: The author examines closely the concept of (sub)regional leader. The leader should have such characteristic features as powerful resource potential, military capacity and political ambitions of leadership. The author has analysed statistical data and foreign policy concepts, and identified states that have become poles of power (gravity) in the region, or have the potential to initiate the integration processes in the future. This analysis allows to predict the medium- and long-term prospects of integration processes in Latin America. To classify the poles, the author has used factor analysis, comparative approach and statistical methods for processing time series to identify potential leaders. Special contribution of the author is elaboration of a methodology for identification of regional and sub-regional leaders based on quantitative assessment. The author presents the three-factor model of regional leadership: based on the resource potential (economics, demography and territory), military power (defence expenditures and size of armed forces), and leadership ambitions (political will).

Keywords: integration, Brazil, Latin America, political centre, military capacity, economic pole, resource potential, pole, regional leader, Mercosur

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.5.54387

Keywords: integration, Brazil, Latin America, political centre, military capacity, economic pole, resource potential, pole, regional leader, Mercosur

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.6.15652

Abstract: The article focuses on the issue of implementation of the European strategy of ensuring the security of energy supply through pipelines. The European Union has participated in development of various alternative projects to end the Russian monopoly on energy supply. At the moment, Azerbaijan is the only country that is capable to ensure European energy security, and Turkey is aiming to become an irreplaceable energy transition corridor in the region. The European Union assigns high priority to the supplies of hydrocarbons through pipelines from Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Iraq and even Iran. The article is based on a great number of works of foreign scientists, statistic data, and reports of different research institutions from all over the world. The publication of the article will allow the readers to comprehensively look at the issue of ensuring European energy security. The main conclusions of the conducted study show that it serves the interests of the European Union to destroy the Russian monopoly and ensure the security of energy supplies through pipelines. The publication is of interest due to the fact that the author evaluates the situation taking into account regional and international actors, as well as the balance of powers. Following this data, it is possible to see the integral picture of the future of the energy security of the European Union.

Keywords: Turkey, Azerbaijan, Russia, South Stream, Southern Gas Corridor, energy supply security, EU, Transit corridor, Shah Deniz, Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.6.54401

Keywords: Turkey, Azerbaijan, Russia, South Stream, Southern Gas Corridor, energy supply security, EU, Transit corridor, Shah Deniz, Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.7.12319

Abstract: In the last years, Iran's nuclear program and the Arab Spring, especially the events in Libya and Syria have contributed to the reinforcement of geopolitical competition in the Middle East. These events are significantly connected with the expansionist geopolitical strategy of the West to change the long-term arrangement of the region for its own benefit and create the "New Middle East". Reacting to such an aggressive approach, Russia preferred to abstain from the previously used careful approach, taking up an independent attitude to protect its own interests. To study the topic of the article and reach the desired goals, historical, comparative and systems methods of analysis were applied. Although the Arab Spring provided an opportunity to activate the Russian Middle East policy, the lack of a universal strategy is an obstacle to reach the long-term goals in the region. This defect can be seen, on the one hand, in the Russian "direct resistance" in Syria, and on the other hand - in Russia's cooperation in legitimation of unlawful pressure on Iran and its nuclear program. Inefficiency of this policy is especially noticeable in the context of changing conditions in the region and the Western focus on more and more aggressive geopolitical policy.

Keywords: Russia, Iran's nuclear program, West, New Middle East, geopolitics, USA, Arab Spring, strategy, aggressive approach, geopolitical competition

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.7.54411

Keywords: Russia, West, New Middle East, geopolitics, USA, Arab Spring, strategy, aggressive approach, geopolitical competition

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.7.15779

Abstract: The subject of the article is the analysis of the problematic points of Eurasian integration in Russian and Turkish foreign policy in the period of 2002-2013. The object of the study are the Turkish-Russian relations in the period of 2002-2013. The present article compares the approaches of Russian and Turkish foreign policy to the major problems of the Eurasian concept and also analyses the potential possibility of cooperation of these countries in particular regions when solving particular problems. From the author's point of view, it is necessary to highlight four basic regions where Russian and Turkish interests overlap: the Black Sea region, Western world, Middle East and Caucasus. Methodologically the research is based on the principle of historicism. The author of the work adhered to the principle of scientific objectiveness, the method of comparative historical analysis and problematic chronological induction. The novelty of the research lies in the fact that Turkey, which is in fact tellurocratic, receives a historical chance to make an alliance with Russia that is referred to as a thalassocratic power. This, perhaps, will have a global impact on the geopolitical theory and will even allow to reconsider Russia as a sea power. Russia possesses the Northern Sea Route, access to the Black Sea, the Pacific Ocean, and Turkey can provide trade and economic safety of the Mediterranean route. The alliance of the successors of the two former empires will to a large extent influence future structure, economic and political order in Eurasia due to the balance and re-consideration of the geopolitical types of tellurocracy and thalassocracy. The main conclusions of the study are as follows: 1. Especially since 2002 there has been increased interest to the Osman past in Turkey. A new quasi-imperial thinking of neo-osmanists has been formed, that was established on a ground prepared by the islamisation of the public space. However, there are no historical and political reasons for that in modern Turkey. At the same time, Erdogan's Turkey still aspires to be the leader of the Sunni world. Since the system instability in Arab countries has begun in 2010, Turkey has been rejecting the "Zero problems with our neighbours" policy, actively supporting the processes going on in Arab countries, explaining, that those are the steps towards democracy. However, in general it appeared that Ankara's new policy has no prospects. 2. Balance of supply and demand for energy sources established between Turkey and Russia laid a right foundation for the creation of long-term relations between the two countries. Under such conditions the Turkish government has always outlined that close approach to Russia is defined by rational calculations, not by narrow nationalistic reasons.

Keywords: EU, NATO, JDP, Arab spring, Montreux Convention, neo-osmanism, Middle East, Caucasus, Eurasian concept, Western world

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.7.54412

Keywords: EU, NATO, JDP, Arab spring, Montreux Convention, neo-osmanism, Middle East, Caucasus, Eurasian concept, Western world

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.7.15879

Abstract: The article considers the development of relations between Turkey and the EU after the 1997 EU Luxembourg summit and until the 1999 Helsinki summit. To create an objective image, the author shortly analyses different documents and reports of the EU Summits that defined the position of the community regarding the relations with the Turkish republic. The subject of the article is th evolution of the EU-Turkish relations during the certain period (December 1997 - December 1999). The object of the articles are the political aspects that define the nature of these relations (the Cyprus dispute, decisions published in the summit documents, position of Greece, position of the USA, etc.). Methodologically the research is based on analysis. The author analises EU-Turkish relations. The article also considers realted aspects that define the nature of relations between these two political actors. Methodologically the author relies on the principle of historicism. The author follows the emergence and development of the studied phenomena and events taking into account a certain historical situation. This allows to consider the development process in a historical retrospective. Finally, the author draws a conclusion that the Helsinki Summit was a pivotal point for the EU-Turkish relations. In the presidency conclusions adopted at the end of the Summit, Turkey was called a candidate country to become a full-fledged member of the EU. These developments significantly improved the relations between Turkey and the community. At that moment it allowed to overcome the divisions created by the decisions of the previous Summits (particularly the desicion of the Luxembourg Summit in 1997). A special author's contribution into the research is the fact that he in detal analyses decisions and documents of the EU Summits, and also analyses the impact of these desicions on the evolution of relations between Turkey and the European Union.

Keywords: Cyprus, Northern Cyprus, Cyprus Dispute, Greece, Turkey, European Integration, European Union, United Europe, EU Enlargement, EU

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.7.54413

Keywords: Cyprus, Northern Cyprus, Cyprus Dispute, Greece, Turkey, European Integration, European Union, United Europe, EU Enlargement, EU

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.7.8890

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.7.54104

Abstract: The author of the article analyzes mechanisms of international legal cooperation of countries in the sphere of prevention of armaments race in outer space. The author describes the status of outer space as partly demilitarized. Special attention is paid at international legal cooperation within the framework of the United Nations Conference on Disarmament Issues. The author proves that the choice of the United Nations Conference on Disarmament Issues to establish international cooperation to prevent armament race in outer space is preferable. The author analyzes suggestions of different countries on what legal and institutional mechanisms have been established to avoid armaments race in outer space since 1985. The author also describes the role of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs as the main international authority for supervisory and lawmaking activities in the sphere of researches and use of outer space including demilitarization of outer space. The author concludes that it is necessary to improve cooperation between the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs and Conference on Disarmament Issues to maintain better coordination of activities and decisions made by these two authorities while retaining independence of each authority.

Keywords: international cooperation, cosmic space, demilitarization, deweaponisation, Conference, Office, armaments race, international conference, control mechanisms, coordination.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.7.9063

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.7.54105

Abstract: The article is devoted to the conceptual analyzes of possibilities to overcome the global innovation gap through efforts undertaken by the countries, international organizations and a private sector for formation of special targets in international cooperation. On a global scale, innovative development is described as a unity of competence and cooperation. Much attention is paid at describing the global innovation gap as a convergence of different levels of national innovative development. In this regard, the author offers a philosophy of global use of innovations based on justice and equality principles. The author of the article focuses on explication of the idea of priority innovative development which defines the strategy of innovation policy in a whole number of countries. The author of the article also touches upon new aspects of relations between developed and developing countries with reference to global innovation paradigm. In addition, the author suggests to relate harmonization of innovative development and the new world economic order and achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. By analyzing existing models of innovative development cooperation, the author concludes that it is necessary to establish a new culture of cooperation between countries in the sphere of building up innovative capacity. The author also offers a concept of global management of innovative development based on the principles of cooperation and trust. The main conclusion made by the author of the article is that only the relations built on trust and partnership can coordinate global innovative and sustainable developments.

Keywords: innovation paradigm, globalization, innovation gap, innovation policy, international relations, international cooperation, innovation breakthrough, sustainable development, world order, trust.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2016.7.15644

Abstract: The object of this research is the relevant aspects of Russian and Chinese foreign policy at the present stage. The object of this research is the instruments and technologies of the “soft power” in Russian and Chinese diplomatic activity. The goal of this work is to reveal the sources of origin, specificities, differences and similarities of the “soft power” in Russian and Chinese foreign policy, as well as to determine the role and place of the instruments of “soft power” in realization of foreign policy of these two nations. The author examines the main channels and vectors of implementation of “soft power” by Moscow and Beijing ; as well as its vulnerable sides, associated with the cultural-civilizational archetypes, achievements of Russia and China in various spheres, peculiarities of development of their economies, political systems, and civil society. The author comes to a conclusion that the content and manifestation of the “soft power” in Russian and Chinese foreign policy is based upon the multidimensional civilizational identity of these countries, as well as they have a particular institutional design which significantly differs from the traditional American and Anglo-Saxon cannons and standards. The role of “soft power” in the foreign policy of Russia and PRC will steadily grow, harmoniously complementing the methods and mechanisms of the traditional diplomacy in favor of ensuring their geopolitical positions in the world. The scientific novelty is defined by the insufficient scientific study of this topic. The work uses a new approach towards examination of the foreign policy of Russia and China that is based on the author’s hypothesis about the growing role of the “soft” diplomacy in realization of the foreign policy priorities of these two states.

Keywords: diaspora, religion, sports, culture, diplomacy, economy, independence, “soft power”, China, Russia

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2016.7.54589

Keywords: diaspora, religion, sports, culture, diplomacy, economy, independence, “soft power”, China, Russia

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.8.14503

Abstract: This article is devoted to the study of the current state and prospects of the development of strategic cooperation between Russia and India under the crisis of the unipolar world, worsening international situation in relation to the Ukrainian crisis, chaos in international relations and the threat of colour revolutions. The object of the research are the foreign policies of India and Russia in the modern world, the subject - the Russian-Indian relations at the present stage. The purpose of research is to define the basic forms and directions of the strategic partnership between Russia and India in the context of the global political process. The research is based on the understanding that India today is one of the largest strategic partners of Russia in Asia-Pacific, West and South Asia. Methodological basis of the present study are systemic, structural-functional, comparative approaches, methods of analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction, observation, modelling. The strategic partnership between Russia and India today is characterised by high dynamics and is developing quite rapidly. Russia and India are traditionally united by a common sense of responsibility for international security and stability, common approaches to the ways and means of overcoming the global economic crisis, the fight against climate changes and the implementation of global governance. India is a dynamically developing democratic state, an influential regional power with a dynamic economy, more than a billion people and significant scientific and technical, industrial and technological potential. Annual GDP growth in India is nine percent, it grows at a rate comparable to the growth of China's GDP. With this, India is beginning to play a leading role in world politics, but not limited to regional level, and becomes one of the centers of political power in the emerging multipolar world.

Keywords: values, India, Russia, state, international systems, geopolitics, USA, society, politics, security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.8.54424

Keywords: values, India, Russia, state, international systems, geopolitics, USA, society, politics, security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.8.9359

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.8.54116

Abstract: The author studies the problem of presence of social and political pseudo-communications in the diplomatic practice of the XX century from the position of neo-institutional approach in political science and international relations. The author provides a brief review of scientific works of Russian and foreign scientists on this topic – V.L.Israelyan, M.A. Khrustalev, G.Raiffa, W. Zartman, L.Rubin. The author provides detailed analysis of the issue of functioning of international pseudo-consultations in consultative and executive bodies of a number of international intergovernmental organizations (such as the NATO, the WPO, OSCE, SCO, CIS). The article contains an example of finding and structural analysis of an international pseudoconsultation in the Political Consultative Committee of the WPO. The author comes to a conclusion on the presence of causal link between pseudo-consultation mechanism, manipulation with the rules of collective decision-making and individual preferences of the participants of international pseudo-consultations. The conclusion may serve as proof of mutual dependency of procedural and personal factors in social and political communications of international intergovernmental organizations. The established dependency may serve as a vivid example of limitations to the freedom of choice of participants of consultation procedures.

Keywords: international consultation, international pseudo-consultation, international pseudo-negotiations, international intergovernmental organization, international social and political communications, the Warsaw Pact Organization, manipulation of individual preferences, political consultative committee, consultation bodies, executive bodies.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.9.12910

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.9.54281

Abstract: The subject under research is the economic relations between Turkey and Russia at the turn of the 20th and the 21st centuries. The author focuses on mutual energy projects and underlines that the main sphere of economic cooperation between these two states is gas even though tourist contacts are also well established because Turkey is one of the most popular holiday resorts for Russian tourists. Special attention is paid to the visit of the president of Russia Vladimir Putin to Ankara and the bilateral documents signed as a result of his visit. According to the author, these documents designate the beginning of a new stage in the bilateral relationship between Russia and Turkey and promise the improvement and further development of an effective cooperation between the countries. The main research methodology of the article is the analysis (the author carries out an integrated analysis of the Russian and Turkish economic relations), comparative studies (comparison of the positions of Turkey and Russia within the framework of their economic contacts) and the principle of historicism (the author traces back the appearance and development of the analyzed phenomena taking into account the current historical situation as well as analyzes prerequisites of the current conditions for cooperation). At the present day economic relations between Turkey and Russia are understudied scientifi cally. The author underlines that the economic sphere is the main aspect of relations between Russia and Turkey, analyzes the legal platform such this cooperation and provides an insight into the mutual projects of these two countries. It is underlined that at the beginning of the 19th century Russia and Turkey fi nally refused from competition for the benefi t of a mutually profi table partnership but despite the intense development of their economic relations, these two countries have reserved some kind of a confl ict potential between them. However, these diffi culties will not have a great infl uence on their relations and common interests will lead Russia and Turkey to integration.

Keywords: Russia, Turkey, the Blue Stream, the South Stream, Nabucco, relations between Russia and Turkey, contemporary history, gas, energy cooperation, tourism.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.9.16039

Abstract: The purpose of the study is to identify the role of the USA in the implementation of the dismantling of the political regimes and application of the technologies of colour revolutions in Libya, Syria and Iraq. The object of research is the policy of the United States of America to change the political regimes in the Middle East and North Africa. The subject of the study are the forms, methods and technologies for the dismantling of the political regimes in Libya, Syria and Iraq. One of the key objectives of the study is to assess the consequences of the "Arab Spring" (the results of the application of the technologies of colour revolutions by the US and its military and political allies) for the region that unites the Arab world - the Middle East, North Africa, and the evaluation of the impact of these processes on global politics four years after a temporary "freezing" (at the turn of Syria) of the wave of colour revolutions in the Arab world. The methodological basis of the research is a systems, structural and functional, comparative political approaches, methods of analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction, observation. The author draws attention to the fact that the so-called "revolutionary" events of the "Arab Spring" have permanently destabilised the situation not only in North Africa and the Middle East, but also affected (and continue to affect) the global developments. In general, the events taking place today in the Arab world are only the first stage of systemic transformation and "reformatting" of the region, which has not been completed and will continue for several decades. The author focuses on the fact that the so-called revolutions of the "Arab Spring" are colour revolutions containing all the attributes of this kind of technologies: these are the technologies of organising a coup in terms of political instability in which the pressure on the government takes place in the form of popular uprisings and revolts, which only look spontaneous.

Keywords: interests, democracy, colour revolutions, hybrid wars, state, USA, society, politics, values, security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.9.54439

Keywords: interests, democracy, colour revolutions, hybrid wars, state, USA, society, politics, values, security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.9.16197

Abstract: The subject of the research in the present article is the elaboration of the American approach to the issue of reformation of the institutional architecture of the European security during the "reset" policy. Special attention is paid to the domestic discussion in the USA regarding this issue, which defines the line of the possible concessions of Washington regarding Russian proposals about radical reconsideration of the system of European security after the military conflict in Georgia in August 2008. The article highlights the reasons of the USA's rejection to reform the Euro-Atlantic institutions and the consequences of such an approach, one of which was the Ukrainian crisis that emerged in 2014. The research is based on the methodological traditions of neoclassical realism, within the framework of which the American policy is considered as a response to a structural challenge of external environment, in this case — "shattering" of the architecture of European security after the August War in 2008. The academic novelty of the research lies in the demonstration of a tight connection between the current crisis of European security (the Ukrainian crisis) and the agenda of the "reset" policy proposed by B. Obama's administration. A rather limited approach to Moscow's proposals regarding reformation of the institutional architecture of European security and focussing on the tactical issues destined the fading of the "reset" and strengthening of the supporters of a "tough" approach towards Russia in the American domestic configuration, who also support the maximal preservation of the existing institutes of Euro-Atlantic security. To a great extent it accelerated political tensions that led to the 2014 Ukrainian crisis.

Keywords: Ukrainian crisis, Russian-American relations, International institutions, NATO, European security, Russia, USA, Missile defence, Reset, International security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.9.54440

Keywords: Ukrainian crisis, Russian-American relations, International institutions, NATO, European security, Russia, USA, Missile defence, Reset, International security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.9.16333

Abstract: The present article analyses of how the political factor – namely, the sanctions imposed by Japan on a unilateral basis – influence economic relations between the Russian Federation and Japan. The object of the research highlighted by the author is bilateral Russian-Japanese relations at the present stage. The subject of the study is the political factor and its influence on the economic component of these relations. Special attention is paid to the general positive trend of the interaction of the two countries in the area of economics and the long-term impact of the factor of political strain. The analytical basis is built upon the systems approach with regard to the bilateral relations of the two countries and to the economic and political sreas of their interaction. The author proposes a hypothesis, according to which in the present time the influence of Japan's unilateral sanctions is rather small both in the trade and investment projects of two countries, and then lists some predictions on what may be their course of actions in the mid- and long term.

Keywords: Ukraine, Geopolitics, Sanctions, Trade, Investments, Economics, Japan, Russia, Crisis, Politics

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.9.54441

Keywords: Ukraine, Geopolitics, Sanctions, Trade, Investments, Economics, Japan, Russia, Crisis, Politics

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.10.13256

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.10.54294

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.

Keywords: multipolarity, Soft Balancing, Asymmetrical Balancing, foreign policy, USA, Great Powers, Regional Actors, world policy, balance of power, regional conflicts.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.10.13305

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.10.54295

Abstract: The topic of the present research is rather complex and consists of the two components. The first component includes the main issues related to the definition of the term “humanitarian cooperation” under the conditions of Eurasian integration as part of the polycentric international system. The second component includes the analysis of the external policy of the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union, relations between social organizations and citizens interacting with each other regarding humanitarian integration for the purpose of creation and preservation of the unified humanitarian space. Research method is quite a controversial issue of the present work, too. The authors appeal to the methods of global studies as a multidisciplinary sphere of scientific knowledge. Global studies use both general scientific methods as well as research methods adopted from special sciences. The methodological base of the research includes a wide circle of scientific tools such as a comparative analytical method, institutional, structuralfunctional methods and system approach. The authors also view the main theoretical and methodological approaches to the definition of “humanitarian cooperation” in terms of globalization and regionalization. The authors have summarized the main materials on the matter and offered conclusions about the prospects of the humanitarian cooperation at the modern stage. In particular, they have underlined possibilities of the humanitarian cooperation under the conditions of regionalization of the Eurasian space as part of the development of the Eurasian Economic Union.

Keywords: international relations, humanitarian cooperation, diplomacy, external policy, integration, Eurasian Economic Union, EAEU, CIS, regionalization, globalization.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2016.9.16271

Abstract: The article examines the factors determining the choice of a public diplomacy form. The author identifies two basic forms of public diplomacy – a hierarchical and a network – corresponding to two dominant structures of social relations. The article also identifies three types of states based on the criteria of a state attitude towards a value of sovereignty: modern, premodern and postmodern. The analysis of variability of forms of public diplomacy and the conditions of its determination have produced the following results. First, in certain way the determinant of variability of the forms of public diplomacy is the structure of social relations, within the framework of which it is being implemented. Second, the choice of the network or hierarchical form of public diplomacy mostly depends on the type of state, which uses the instruments of public diplomacy. Modern and postmodern states are more prone to hierarchical forms of public diplomacy, and the postmodern more often choose the network form of public diplomacy. Sovereignty being understood as strive for autonomy rather corresponds with the hierarchical form of public diplomacy, which is more often used by the modern states. Deviation from sovereignty as the highest value allows the postmodern allows using the network public diplomacy, which in the long-term perspective is more efficient than the hierarchical form. Premodern states can use both forms of public diplomacy if permitted by their resources.

Keywords: mediated diplomacy, premodernism, postmodernism, modernity, networks, hierarchy, government, public diplomacy, world politics, propaganda

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2016.9.54619

Keywords: mediated diplomacy, premodernism, postmodernism, modernity, networks, hierarchy, government, public diplomacy, world politics, propaganda

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.10.15436

Abstract: This article is devoted to the study of the features of Ukrainian foreign policy in direct relation to the state and the main stages of the evolution of foreign policy relations between Russia and the West. A key step in the development and transformation of these relations in the years 2013-15 was the Ukrainian crisis which has qualitatively changed the relations between the two countries for many years, . The article provides analysis and description of the main stages and phases of the development of the Ukrainian crisis as a projection of US-Russian relations, demonstrating the presence of a positive feedback. Methodological bases of the research includes systemic, structural and functional, comparative-historical and comparative-political approaches, methods of induction, deduction, analysis, synthesis, observation. The main result of the study was evidence that the Ukrainian crisis has become the key point in the system of relations between Russia and Western countries, showing that Ukraine's foreign policy is a direct projection of the state of US-Russian relations. Thus, any changes in the relations between the USA and Russia lead to an immediate response in Ukraine according to a "stimulus-response" principle on the reflex level, which is basic for external control of the Ukrainian political elite in Washington.

Keywords: interests, democracy, state, hybrid wars, Ukraine, USA, society, politics, values, security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.10.54459

Keywords: interests, democracy, state, hybrid wars, Ukraine, USA, society, politics, values, security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.10.16393

Abstract: The article is dedicated to the current international cultural and humanitarian policy of Russia and characterises its major achievements in 2014. Special emphasis is put on the international cultural isolation of Russia under the internationalisation of the Ukrainian crisis. The article explores the peculiar features of the "cultural" sanctions against Russia, their consequences and the public attitude towards them in Russia. Moreover, the article reveals the reasons for the enhancement of the role of culture in contemporary international relations as a mechanism of solving international contradictions. The following methods were used in the study: sociological (which allowed to reveal the influence of the cultural factor on politics) and situation method. The novelty of the research lies in the proof of politicisation of international cultural relations. The author concludes that “cultural sanctions" did not have a significant impact on the cultural and humanitarian cooperation between Russia and foreign countries, and that Russia continues to develop international cultural dialogue during the period of international tension.

Keywords: cultural and humanitarian relations, Russia, culture, foreign policy, «soft power», sanctions, foreign cultural policy, diplomacy, image, influence

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.10.54460

Keywords: cultural and humanitarian relations, Russia, culture, foreign policy, «soft power», sanctions, foreign cultural policy, diplomacy, image, influence

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.11.10150

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.11.54156

Abstract: The author of the article analyzes some tendencies of development of the System of International Relations (SIR) during post-polarity epoch. The author empathizes dynamism and contradictory nature of transformation processes in the modern world order, the growth of crisis developments in the global policy and the ‘roughness’ of modern international relations. The author states the fact that geopolitical schemes of SIR polarity still do not lose their importance. The author offers a defi nition of the term ‘polarity’ and provides a classifi cation of traditional and new types of SIR polarity developed in modern political sciences (unipolarity, bipolarity, polypolarity, polarityness). The author reveals the main peculiarities of each type of polarity and describes possible development of international relations in the XXI century. It has been concluded that unipolar SIR will be impossible in the future due to growing complexity and diversity of the world view. Formation of bipolar SIR as represented by the USA and another actor of international relations is still under the question because there is no actor which potentials would compare to the USA. It is too early for a polar-free SIR which assumes the extreme point of decentralization of power and government at the XXI century because a changing multipolar world has a particular hierarchy, leaders, standards of the system functioning and a whole variety of all kinds of communication formats aimed at keeping the balance and stability of the SIR.

Keywords: The system of international relations, polarity, unipolarity, bipolarity, multipolarity, polycentricity, polarityness, geopolitics, balance of forces, globalization.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.11.10200

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.11.54157

Abstract: The author continues to view international integration as a system phenomenon. The functional approach to researching elements and components of integration as well as combination of the results of different decompositions create the image of the structure. Particular function of the element or component is represented as the interrelation which defi nes the order of inclusion of the part into the whole. In social environment the role of such relations is usually performed by social interests. Social interests have a complex structure and oriented from a subject to a subject. Social interests are presented as the internal sources of activity performed by international integration actors acting at all levels and in all spheres of social activity. If we use this approach, we can understand that governments are not the only actors of international integration and international treaties and agreements about creating the zones of free trade, customs unions, common economic areas are not the only forms of international integration. Examples from modern economic and political experience present individuals, enterprises, trans-national corporations, regions, states and inter-state units as integration actors.

Keywords: International integration, actors of international integration, needs, social interests, regional international units, customs union, European integration, Eurasian integration, interstate units, integration.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.11.9511

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.11.54306

Abstract: The article is devoted to the problem of the comprehensive analysis of international consultations with the elements of negotiations. In the Russian political science, a significant contribution to developing the methodology for analyzing international negotiations was made by the lecturers of MGIMO-University, M. Lebedev and M. Khrustalev. In foreign political science, researchers paid special attention to psychological aspects of international negotiations and consultations. As a result, Blake’s and Mouton’s model and Hopman’s algorithm were created. These models reveal strategic and behavioral elements of the integrated analysis of different forms of international social-political communications. The aforesaid models are also used by the author of the present article to analyze the course of Soviet-American bilateral consultations on preparation and adoption of the Final (Helsinki) Act on Security and Cooperation in Europe. The author focuses on the positions of Kissinger and Dobrynin who were the key figures of the studied consultation process. As a result, the author conclude that tactics and positions of the Soviet party was quite contradictory which caused the shift of the agenda towards general humanitarian issues.

Keywords: international consultation, international negotiations, Blake’s and Mouton’s model, Hopman algorithm, Helsinki act, A. Dobrynin, Henry Kissinger, consultation process, Conference for Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE), Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, social-political communication.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.11.16689

Abstract: This article examines the nuances of the Iran-Russia and Russia-United States relations at the modern stage of development. The relations between Iran and Russia carry a global importance in all respects. The geopolitical location and diplomacy of Iran, as well as the close cooperation in the military and nuclear sphere, gave these relations a special international character. In the las two decades, any changes in the relations between Washington and Moscow become one of the most important and influential variable in the Iran-Russia relations. In the aggressive atmosphere between Iran and the United States, Tehran was always concerned that any improvements in the Russia-United States relations will lead to the isolation of Iran and increased pressure against it. This work analyzes the tensions in the international relations and new security threats, such as the spread of nuclear weapons and terrorism. The author concludes that the major negative factor affecting the relations between Moscow and Tehran, were the United States; and they are also the main reason for the overall development of the relations between Russia and Iran, as well as the improvements in the relations between Tehran and Washington. In other words, the positive changes in the relations Iran-United States relations could contribute into the establishment of the long-term relations between Tehran and Moscow.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2015.11.54477

Keywords: US unilateralism, Terrorism, , Nuclear weapons, National interests, Iran, Russia, USA, US missile shield, International security

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.12.10199

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.12.54169

Abstract: The author of the article tries to withdraw from traditional research of particular aspects of international integration and study international integration as a system phenomenon. Establishment of a regional integrated union is presented as a process of formation of trans-national political and economic integrity. The integrity manifests itself in the opposition of the integration system to the environment, i.e. the global system of international economic and political relations. This opposition allows the integration system not only to preserve its qualities but also to purposefully change the external conditions. Participants of regional integrated unions consolidate, try to realize their mutual interests by joints forces, act as a stronger force on the global stage and get more changes to succeed under the conditions of global competition. As the structure of the integrated union becomes more complicated, the degree of integrity and immunity to the environmental impact increases, too. The fact that the integration phenomenon belongs to the category of organic and inorganic systems has an impact on the degree of integrity, too. In this regard it is important to say that the additivity principle applies to inorganic systems and the principles of super-additivity and sub-additivity apply to organic systems. Examples from the present-day practice of international integration prove the author’s theoretical provisions.

Keywords: international integration, regional integration union, globalization, establishment of the integral, addition principle, global competition, integration union, European integration, Eurasian integration, customs union.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.12.10578

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2013.12.54170

Abstract: The article is devoted to the interstate conflict of interests in Central Asian countries regarding the joint use of transboundary water resources in the region. The author of the article also evaluates the significance of the region for national interests and security of the Russian Federation and analyzes participation of the international community as well as the role of international law in the sphere of joint use of trans-boundary water resources in the region. The subject matter of the research is the influence of water resources on interstate relations of Central Asian republics. Unsettled disagreements regarding the joint use of trans-boundary water resources and the growing water deficiency trigger interstate conflicts between countries in the Central Asia. The author of the article uses factor analysis, system-functional method as well as the interdisciplinary approach to studying international conflicts arising in the sphere of water management. At the end of the article the author makes a conclusion that the role and the place of the Central Asian region in Russia’s short-term and long-term foreign policies should be reviewed as a result of increasing strategic and economic importance of the region. In this regard, the author of the article offers particular recommendations on regulation of the water conflict in the Central Asian region with the participation of the Russian Federation and for the purpose of preservation and strengthening geopolitical influence of Russia in the territory of the former Soviet Union.

Keywords: conflict of interest, trans-boundary water resources, water deficiency, external policy, national security, national interests, contribution to the international development, international water law, international organizations, international relations.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.12.14052

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.12.54323

Abstract: The subject the present research is the ensuring energy security of Europe. The object of research is the energy policy of Russia and the EU. The author of the article examines the role of Russia in ensuring energy security of Europe as well as the role of transit countries in ensuring European energy security in general. The author of the article especially focuses on the role of Russia in ensuring energy security of Europe considering the Ukrainian crisis and consequences of the Ukrainian crisis for the relations between the Russian Federation and the EU in the sphere of energy production. The researcher also touches upon the role of the third countries in supplying energy resources to the EU. The methodology of the present research involves the systems, structural-functional approaches and methods of comparative-historical and comparative-political analysis. The researcher concludes that the strategic partnership between the RF and the EU regarding the energy sector is based on the energy security in the long-term. Due to the Ukrainian crisis, Russia now has to face several challenges, both in geopolitics, geo-economics and external energy policy. Without any doubts, Russia will not only remain the leading operator on the global energy market but also actively participate in further development of markets considerably reinforcing its positions in the globalization of the energy sector.

Keywords: relations of Russia and the EU, globalization, geopolitics, energy policy, Ukrainian crisis, energy security, transit countries, CIS countries, South Stream, energy market.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2014.12.54324

Abstract: The author of the article examines the basic legal documents regarding cooperation on energy issues between China and Russia as well as the development of relations between PRC and RF as strategic partners. The researcher describes the main stages of the development of energy negotiations between China and Russia. The course of the development of energy cooperation between China and Russia is divided by the author into the four stages: Yeltsin’s period, Putin’s epoch, Medvedev’s era and the new era of Putin. The author notes that the cooperation on energy issues between China and Russia is an essential part of the strategic cooperation between these two countries. In this article the methodological basis for political studies involves systems, structural-functional and comparative-political approaches as well as methods of analysis and synthesis. The scientific novelty of the research is caused by the fact that in the long term energy cooperation between China and Russia depends on the three political factors. Firstly, this cooperation should be based on bilateral interests. Secondly, energy cooperation between the two countries should be built upon a strong strategic partnership which would guarantee a better support of the energy dialogue between China and Russia. Finally, the leaders of the both countries should pay more attention to their energy relations and support their development.

Keywords: cooperation on energy issues, energy security, strategic partnership, joint statement, stages of development, Eastern itinerary, Western itinerary, prospects for cooperation, supply diversification, cooperation on gas issues.

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2016.12.21556

Abstract: The subject of this research is the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), while the object is the work of this organization in the context of international economic integration. It is demonstrates that peculiar relevance in examination of the integration processes within SCO space is gained by the analysis of development trends of the trade and economic cooperation of the Russian Federation with the states of Central Asia and PRC, namely special attention is given to the questions of preferential goods trade regime and elimination of surcharges. The author determines the peculiarities of functioning of SCO in the context of international economic integration. The main conclusions consist in the following positions: international economic integration over several decades is an intrinsic phenomenon of the global economic life, the scales of which constantly grow, as well as increases the amount of countries that actively participate in this process. We can follow the directly proportional dependence between the level of participation of a state in the integration processes and level of its economic development. In the economic sector of areas of influence, the important role in Central Asia belongs to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, which performs the function of the efficient instrument of regional economic integration. All of the member-states of this organization are interested in the further increase of activeness of economic cooperation within the framework of SCO, considering their national interests.

Keywords: Political consolidation, Information security, Reindustrialization , Import substitution, Chinese culture, China’s economic strategy, Geopolitics, Central Asian geopolitical vector, Shanghai Cooperation Organization, International economic integration

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2016.12.54658

Keywords: Political consolidation, Information security, Reindustrialization, Import substitution, Chinese culture, China’s economic strategy, Geopolitics, Central Asian geopolitical vector, Shanghai Cooperation Organization, International economic integration

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2016.12.17206

Abstract: The subject of this research is the policy of the European Union in the area of management of the Arab-Israeli conflict. EU declarations gradually confirm the commitment to the principle of resolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict based on the right of two nations to self-determination if comply with the human rights and the norms of international law. For achieving these goals, the European Union uses multiple diplomatic and economic tools, and most importantly, the privity of contract with Israel and Palestine. The purpose of this work consists in the analysis of actions of the European Union, which reveals the gap between the claimed goals of the EU and their realization in practice. The nature of such gap is associated with the character of EU actions, according to which the European Union collectively decided to apply certain means that serve to the unestablished goals and interests. The methodological basis of this article is the general scientific theoretical position about consistency of the complicated political interests, as well as the idea on interconditionality of the factors determining the formation of political strategy of the states. The author concludes that the EU policy regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict abides by the interest of “higher order”. A suggestion is made that reconsideration of the EU goals will not cause the refusal from obligations in the area of human rights and international law. The European Union can reject the goal pertaining to the creation of two states, however, it can lead to the actual recognition of the expansion of Israeli settlements, as well as control over the occupied Palestinian territories.

Keywords: Palestine, Gaza Strip, Israel, International relations, Foreign policy, Regional security, Arab-Israeli conflict, Resolution of the conflict, Ethnic conflicts, European Union

DOI: 10.7256/2454-0684.2016.12.54664