Securitization in Defining Regional Security Complexes: the Case of the Baltic States (2004–2013). Summary of the Doctoral Thesis

Abstract

The objective of the thesis “Securitization in Defining Regional Security Complexes: The Case of the Baltic States (2004 – 2013)” is to examine the role of securitization processes in defining regional security complexes and their role in determining the place of the Baltic States among regional security complexes. The following hypotheses are verified: 1) factors intrinsic to traditional security apart from securitization and de-securitization processes cannot determine regional security complexes; 2) the Baltic States form a sub-region of regional security complex; 3) membership in the EU and NATO has not altered the place of the Baltic States within regional security complexes and they still belong to a regional security complex centered on Russia; 4) the intensity of securitization processes is the determining factor when identifying the place of the Baltic States amongst regional security complexes. The regional security complex theory and its elements are critically examined – especially with regard to securitization theory and its place in the regional security complex theory. The Baltic States are analyzed as a sub-region of regional security complex, by examining its defining factors, interaction with neighbors, and the role of great powers. Also the main inter-state securitization processes in the Baltic States are analyzed, namely – securitization of Russia. Finally, securitization processes of the Baltic States in Russia are analyzed. It is proposed to adjust the afore-mentioned theories in order to ensure their better empirical application – especially with regard to definitions of elements determining regional security complexes and interaction among them, and structure of securitization processes and their role in determining regional security complexes. It is concluded that the first, the second, and the fourth hypotheses are proven, the third is only partly proven. The Baltic States make up a sub-region of the “EU/NATO Europe – Russia” regional security complex. Further alterations of borders of this complex related to the Baltic States can only be expected with significant de-securitization. Currently, mutual non-securitization is almost impossible. But a decrease of intensity of securitization and at least a partial de-securitization is possible. However, prospects of de-securitization depend primary on Russia.