Transnationalism refers to a social
phenomenon according to which interconnectivity between people increases despite
of the declining economic and social significance between states. One of the
effects of transnational relations is the dependence and interdependence of
states.
The example of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan may
be seen as a relation of interdependence. Pakistan being financially unstable can
count on the House of Saud to provide it with monetary assistance in times of
need. Saudi Arabia has oil resources that make it capable of extending this
form of support. On the other hand, Pakistan is known for its military strength.
Whenever, the Arabs feel threatened they are assisted by the Pakistani military
coupled with their own (which too is largely trained by Pakistan). Since, both
countries are dependent upon each other for something they themselves do not
have. But, just as Pakistan is expected to support any war that the House of
Saud wants it to, Pakistan cannot expect the Arabs to militarily support them
in inter or intra-state wars.
According to
Robert Keohane and Joseph Nye, it may be possible for small states with less
power to take decisions solely based on a cost benefit analysis of the possible
policies. On the other hand, larger states or the ones with more power need to
consider “the effect of their own policy on the transnational system” which
includes the smaller states dependent upon them.
In case of the Yemen
conflict Pakistan was commanded by the Arabs to join the war against Iran
without considering the fact that Pakistan shares a border with Iran which is
likely to cause bigger problems for the state. This is when political interests
replace transnational relations.
I like how you have explained the concept with the help of examples but i would further like to bring something to your notice, The reason non-state entities are able to exercise power is because they sometimes are able to influence the economy of the state or has the public support are their main weapon.
ReplyDeleteInteresting post, though I will clarify to note that SA wanted Pakistan to participate in the conflict against the Houthis, not Iran. But the conflict against the Houthis would have harmed Pakistan's relationship with Iran.
ReplyDeleteI also like that you note the distinction between small and powerful states. I agree that more powerful states have to take into account more than just the simple cost-benefit analysis that small states do. They really do have to examine the impact of their actions vis-à-vis the international system and transnational actors.