Regionalstudies.kz is an educational and research platform dedicated to the study of regional studies, international relations, and the role of middle powers in global politics. The portal is created for researchers, educators, students, and practitioners to provide access to analysis, resources, and discussions on key issues of international diplomacy.
Middle powers are countries that occupy an intermediate position between great and small states. They possess significant resources and influence, but not at the level of great powers. These countries play an important role in international politics by promoting multilateral initiatives and supporting stability. Their ability in mediation and coalition-building makes them key participants in solving global problems and advancing international cooperation.
Middle powers possess a significant but not dominant level of economic development. Their economies rank in the top 20 or top 50 globally by GDP (nominal or PPP), allowing them to be active participants in international trade and economic cooperation. Example: South Korea, Australia.
Middle powers have moderate but well-developed armed forces that ensure their national security and participation in international missions. They typically do not seek dominance but actively support global and regional security. Example: Turkey, Canada.
These countries hold key positions in their regions, acting as leaders and initiators of integration processes, diplomatic initiatives, and peacekeeping missions. Example: Brazil in Latin America, South Africa in Africa.
Middle powers play an important role in multilateral diplomacy, actively participating in the work of the UN, G20, WTO, OSCE, and other global and regional organizations. Their involvement aims to strengthen the rules-based international order. Example: Canada in the UN, Indonesia in ASEAN.
Middle powers often act as mediators in international conflicts, offering their platforms for dialogue or participating in peacekeeping missions. This allows them to strengthen their international authority. Example: Norway in conflict resolution.
Emphasis is placed on cultural, educational, scientific, and humanitarian diplomacy. These countries build a positive image through aid programs, educational initiatives, and cultural promotion. Example: Sweden, Finland.
Middle powers balance their foreign policy priorities, avoiding allegiance to just one of the great powers. Their strategic goal is the diversification of external relations. Example: Kazakhstan.
Kazakhstan is included in the list of the world's middle powers, as confirmed by research from the German think tank SWP. It mentions 12 countries, including Kazakhstan, Turkey, India, and Brazil, which stand out for their economic, political, and strategic achievements. For Kazakhstan, this status is supported by its balanced foreign policy, resource power, geopolitical position, and role in ensuring the stability of the Middle Corridor.
Middle powers like Kazakhstan play a unique role in shaping the international order:
• They act as mediators between major powers.
• They promote initiatives in sustainable development, food, and energy security.
• They support regional stability, especially in Central Asia, strengthening cooperation with neighbors.
The world faces global challenges that cannot be solved by superpowers alone. Middle powers offer a different perspective, strengthen multilateral ties, and contribute to the implementation of new approaches in international relations. Kazakhstan, with its unique strategy and resources, reinforces this role, contributing to global stability.Thus, Kazakhstan is more than just a country in Central Asia. It is a reliable partner, a strategic hub, and an active participant in the global political process.
Since gaining independence, Kazakhstan has implemented a multi-vector approach in its foreign policy. This allows the country to build relationships with world powers, avoiding dependence on a single power center, and to act as a mediator in international conflicts.
The wealth of natural resources, including oil, gas, and uranium, enhances Kazakhstan's economic significance on the global stage, ensuring strategic partnerships with countries in Europe and Asia.
Located at the crossroads of key transport routes, Kazakhstan plays a central role in developing trade corridors between China, Europe, and the Middle East. The Middle Corridor, passing through the country, has become an important link in the global supply chain.
As noted by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kazakhstan demonstrates the ability to adapt to complex diplomatic challenges, paving the way for compromises and reconciliation, which is especially important in a multipolar world.
The development of human capital, innovative technologies, and the strengthening of the role of science in Kazakhstan form a sustainable base for economic and political influence.