Can small states have a grand strategy?

Abstract

Grand strategy is normally associated with the actions of major powers. This thesis asks whether small states can also pursue a grand strategy. It does so on the basis of a case study of the island nation of Malta, which fits the criteria of a small state. The thesis is the first to bring two developing sub-fields of academic scholarship together: the study of grand strategy; and the study of small states. The first half of the thesis is conceptual, before the second half moves on to the case study. The thesis begins by attempting to establish a clear definition of grand strategy. This is a term which has become increasingly popular in academic works and among policy makers, but which still belies easy definition. The thesis establishes a set of criteria by which one can judge the existence (or otherwise) of grand strategy, before setting this against a typology of small state strategies. On this basis, the case study suggests that small states can indeed pursue a grand strategy in favourable circumstances, but that their ability to do so may be severely restricted by other factors, such as domestic upheaval or an adverse international environment. This doctoral degree was carried out following the award of an Endeavour B Scholarship Scheme funded out of national funds from the Government of Malta.

Date of Award	1 Jun 2020
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	King's College London
Supervisor	John Bew (Supervisor)