The 'security paradoxes' of the Black Sea region

Abstract

The international order has entered a new era that is characterized by dramatic changes, in terms of both structure and process. Within this evolving non-polar world, the emergence of the Black Sea as a region and as a geopolitical hub is undeniable; yet the issues at hand are many, complex and challenging. A number of key paradoxes that have shaped the profile of the region to date, and will continue to define its future, are ever more clearly making their presence felt. This article attempts to illustrate and bring to the surface these paradoxes, namely the interplay between economic growth/subregionalism versus ethnonationalism/security dilemmas and the 'neighbourhood perception paradox'. The purpose is to help assess the current state of play and address the key questions for the future of the region. © 2009 Taylor & Francis.