Foreign policy change and international norms: a conceptual framework

Abstract

Foreign policy change (FPC) is an important topic and has therefore attracted much scholarly attention. Yet, literature has largely overlooked how FPC is related to international norms. This special issue seeks to add value to the field of foreign policy analysis by strengthening the empirical literature linking FPC and international norms. The papers in this issue tease out the intervening factors in facilitating the relationship between foreign policy change and the international norm. The introductory article introduces the conceptual framework which draws on both the structure-agency and "push-pull" debates to provide the cohesive analytical structure for the issue.

“Winning” and “Losing” the Iran Nuclear Deal: How Advocacy Coalitions and Competition Shape U.S. Foreign Policy

“…In sum, this study attempts to explain foreign policy processes and continuity and change using the ACF framework. At the same time, it recognizes contending possible theoretical perspectives, from individual decision makers to structural considerations (Brazys, Kaarbo, and Panke ; Gustavsson ; Wehner and Thies ; Welch ). For example, it may be tempting in the Trump era to become preoccupied with the leadership style and influence of presidents.…”

“…The past two decades have seen some diversification of the scholarship, with more studies recognizing that foreign policy restructuring is typically the result of complex domestic political processes and contestation (Brummer et al 2019;Kaarbo 2017;Raunio and Wagner 2017). Among the more promising research programs on restructuring have been studies of loss-aversion theory and foreign policy change, role theory, and constructivist treatments of international norms.…”

“…For example, Welch () draws on insights from cognitive theory, organization theory, and prospect theory to argue that dramatic changes are more likely when leaders expect the status quo to generate continued painful losses. Contemporary studies of role theory also provide rich insights for foreign policy continuity and change (Wehner and Thies ), as do promising works applying constructivist theories of international norms to study foreign policy change (Brazys, Kaarbo, and Panke ).…”

Foreign Policy Change: From Policy Adjustments to Fundamental Reorientations

“…Doeser and Eidenfalk (2013) also discuss the decision of Australia's government to abandon its hands-off approach toward the Solomon Islands by deciding on a military intervention, which constitutes a more clear break with its past behavior. Brazys et al (2017).…”