Executive Summary
This editorial introduces a thematic issue on the "geoeconomic turn" in the global political economy, advocating for an empirically grounded, international political economy (IPE) perspective. It argues that while policy and regulation are shifting towards geoeconomics, material changes in trade and investment are slower and more complex. The authors find that this turn often reinforces existing power structures, prioritizing corporate interests over societal goals like sustainability and equity, and call for more research on these dynamics.
Why It Matters
This document is crucial for defense and geopolitical analysts as it outlines the shift towards geoeconomics, where economic tools are increasingly used for strategic competition, impacting global power dynamics and national security. Understanding this 'turn' is vital for anticipating future conflicts and alliances.
Key Takeaways
- The global economy is undergoing a 'geoeconomic turn,' where economic tools are increasingly used for strategic competition, challenging traditional neoliberal globalization.
- Current geoeconomic shifts, while signaling policy changes, are still materializing and often replicate existing power structures prioritizing capital interests over societal or environmental concerns.
- Empirical analysis of concrete cases is essential to understand the nuanced interplay of political and economic actors in this evolving geoeconomic landscape, moving beyond purely security-focused interpretations.
Strategic Relevance
The geoeconomic turn signifies a fundamental shift in international relations, where economic power and policy are weaponized for strategic advantage. This impacts national security, supply chain resilience, technological dominance, and the global balance of power, requiring defense strategists to integrate economic considerations into their analyses.