Introduction

Abstract

This chapter begins by examining the global geopolitical changes that came about at the end of the twentieth century, which included the collapse of the Berlin Wall, the end of communism and the subsequent disintegration of the Soviet Union into the Commonwealth of Independent States. It briefly outlines the approach by which Great Powers (those countries with significant military, economic, territorial and population) capabilities have gone about constructing their foreign policy approaches. It especially focuses on the period after the end of the Cold War, and the changes that were manifesting in the international system, including the beginning of manifesting of failed states and violent non-state actors. It also outlines the rest of the monograph, highlighting the different sections of the book.