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When Ideological Enemies Ally: Insights from Cornell Studies in Security Affairs

Gus Hayes

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Published in Frenemies: When Ideological Enemies Ally (Cornell Studies In Security Affairs)

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In the realm of international relations, it is often assumed that ideological enemies are destined to remain at odds. Yet, history provides numerous examples of such adversaries forming alliances, defying conventional wisdom and reshaping the geopolitical landscape. Cornell Studies in Security Affairs has dedicated extensive research to this phenomenon, shedding light on the underlying motivations, dynamics, and consequences of ideological alliances.

Frenemies: When Ideological Enemies Ally (Cornell Studies in Security Affairs)

by Mark L. Haas

4.7 out of 5

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Historical Precedents

One of the most well-known examples of ideological enemies allying is the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact of 1939. This non-aggression agreement between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union shocked the world, as the two countries held diametrically opposed political ideologies. However, the pact was driven by shared strategic interests in expanding their territories and preventing a two-front war.

Another notable case is the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988). Despite their ideological differences (Iran being a theocratic republic and Iraq a secular Ba'athist state),the two countries formed an alliance against their common enemy, the United States. This alliance was based on a shared desire to challenge American influence in the Middle East.

Motivations for Alliances

The motivations for ideological enemies to ally can be complex and varied. Some of the most common include:

Shared Strategic Interests: Alliances can be formed to achieve specific strategic objectives, such as territorial expansion or preventing a common enemy from gaining an advantage.
Balancing Against a Greater Threat: When faced with a more powerful adversary, smaller countries may form alliances with ideological enemies to balance the power dynamics.
Pragmatism and Realpolitik: Ideological differences may be set aside in favor of pragmatic considerations, such as economic gain or security concerns.
Misperception and Miscalculation: Alliances may be formed based on misperceptions about the true intentions or capabilities of the other party.

Dynamics of Ideological Alliances

Ideological alliances are often fraught with challenges and tensions. The underlying ideological differences can lead to disagreements, mistrust, and difficulty in coordinating joint actions. Furthermore, such alliances may face domestic opposition and international condemnation, which can undermine their stability.

The success of ideological alliances depends on factors such as the strength of the shared interests that brought them together, the willingness of the parties to compromise and cooperate, and the external pressures that may challenge the alliance.

Implications for International Relations

Ideological alliances can have significant implications for international relations and global security. They can reshape power balances, alter the course of conflicts, and disrupt established diplomatic norms.

The formation of ideological alliances can be a sign of geopolitical shifts, as smaller countries seek to balance against larger powers or as former adversaries find common ground in facing a new threat. Such alliances can also lead to increased tensions and instability, especially if the ideological differences are deep-rooted and the parties involved are unwilling to compromise.

The phenomenon of ideological enemies allying is a complex and nuanced one. Cornell Studies in Security Affairs has provided valuable insights into the motivations, dynamics, and consequences of such alliances, contributing to our understanding of international relations and global security.

By examining historical and contemporary examples, we can better appreciate the factors that drive ideological enemies to ally and the challenges they face in maintaining such alliances. This knowledge can help policymakers navigate the complexities of a constantly evolving geopolitical landscape, where alliances and enmities can shift rapidly based on changing strategic interests and ideological alignments.

Frenemies: When Ideological Enemies Ally (Cornell Studies in Security Affairs)

by Mark L. Haas

4.7 out of 5