Estlands säkerhetspolitik i egenskap av småstat : En kvalitativ innehållsanalys av Estlands nationella säkerhetskoncept 2023

Sammanfattning

This study seeks to understand Estonia as a small state acting on the international arena in 2023. By analysing the National Security Concept of Estonia by applying Baldur Thorhallsson’s shelter theory, this study identifies Estonia’s shelter-seeking tendencies based on three areas of small state weakness: military, economic and societal. As a small European state and the front line of NATO against Russia, Estonia is primarily seeking military shelter with allies and partners. The National Security Concept also indicates economic shelter-seeking by embracing open international trade and moving its energy dependence from Russia to partners in Europe. Lastly, Estonia shows potential societal seeking by promoting democratic values domestically and abroad.