CONJUNCTURAL POWER AS AN OUTCOME OF GLOBAL AND REGIONAL CHANGES: THE CASE OF UZBEKISTAN
CONJUNCTURAL POWER AS AN OUTCOME OF GLOBAL AND REGIONAL CHANGES: THE CASE OF UZBEKISTAN

Summary/Abstract: This article examines to what extent conjunctural fluctuations in global and regional politics alter the influence and the power of a state. Primarily, the article argues that such fluctuations create a surplus in power that alters a state’s political clout. To explain this dynamic, the article introduces the concept of “conjunctural power” as an outcome of sudden regional and global developments, and which increases or decreases the weight/ influence of the foreign policy of a state without affecting its real power position. The examination of the concept, in the case of Uzbekistan, proves that global and regional fluctuations generate “conjunctural power”, strengthening a particular state’s influence and power position vis-à-vis regional and great powers. Furthermore, “conjunctural power” could render a great power a middle power while virtually promoting some small powers to the position of middle powers when it comes to particular issues under certain conditions. The article claims that implementing policies in harmony with conjunctural fluctuations would also generate “conjunctural power”. Additionally, “conjunctural power”, as a surplus power, may increase one or two power capabilities of a state while decreasing or having no effect on others.

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