International Conflict

  • How Hostile Neighbors Advance their Domestic and Foreign Policy Agendas Through Political Interference

    How Hostile Neighbors Advance their Domestic and Foreign Policy Agendas Through Political Interference

    Existing policy research cites domestic and systemic factors as primary explanations for political underdevelopment, ignoring the potential impact of international relations and foreign interference. As a result, many foreign policy strategies fail to address threats due to nations sharing borders with countries possessing opposing interests. Is it possible that a…

  • Causes of War: When the Unknown Creates False Optimism

    Causes of War: When the Unknown Creates False Optimism

    Differing estimates and perceptions of opponents’ power may increase the likelihood of war. Countries are generally incentivized to misrepresent their own strength and capabilities, and such stratagems to retain advantage during military bargaining may lead to mutually optimistic perceptions: each state believes it is more powerful than its opponent. As…