The Geopolitics of State Recognition in a Transitional International Order

This article explores how the geopolitical rivalries and tensions associated with multipolarity in a transitional international order, driven by shifts great power influence, are shaping politics of state recognition. It considers diplomatic discourse practices traditional powers resurgent states relation to number controversial cases territories seeking independent statehood Although contested claims for sovereign recognition predate current constellation, we find that contemporary offer dominant grounds normative contestation their rivals. Whilst this is reflection historical continuities politics, shows friction generates, has further fragmented norms At same time, there not been broad upheaval because most maintain conservative attitude creation. The contributes debates on revealing political changing order make possibility rigorous, rules-based regime regulating more remote than ever.