ISSN: 2225-8329
Open access
This research analyzes the strategic transformation of competitive international politics in the context of geopolitical power during the period 1991-2025 through qualitative methodology. In this process where global power balances have been restructured in the post-Cold War era, states' pursuit of geopolitical power has constituted the fundamental dynamic of the international system. The central research question addresses how geopolitical power struggle shapes the competitive structure in international politics. Drawing from the power-centric approach of realist theory, the hypothesis that strategies pursued by states in accordance with their national interests transform the competitive structure in the international system is tested. The purpose of the study is to explain the logic of geopolitical competition during the transition to a multipolar world order. Based on qualitative research design, this study examines the strategic behaviors of nine great power states selected through purposive sampling method. Content analysis was conducted using official documents, policy texts, and academic sources in the data collection process. Findings indicate that geopolitical power concentrates on three fundamental elements: military capability, economic capacity, and regional sphere of influence. Research results reveal that geopolitical competition has intensified during the transition from unipolar to multipolar structure. States develop regional alliances by acting with security dilemma logic and attempt to shift strategic balances in their favor. The study contributes to international politics theory by explaining the dynamic nature of geopolitical competition. The research also develops policy recommendations regarding how changes in power distribution affect global stability. For future research, examining the rising role of regional powers is recommended.
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