ABSTRACT
In terms of all possible economic, social and political indicators, the development of different territories, regions, zones and countries is highly uneven. While some countries, such as, for example, almost all of the African continent, are consistently in the group of the least developed countries, others, on the contrary, demonstrate fast and positive – or “rising” – developmental dynamics. Some of them have expansive territories, large national economies and growing international ambitions. As Tank stresses, it is these “rising powers” that “are changing the dynamics of power in the international system by seeking a greater voice in international institutions and building political bonds through regional organizations”.1 Established powers face certain challenges when dealing with rising ones, since the latter call for more multipolar and pluralist conceptions.2
Stuenkel supports this thesis by arguing that “the dominant position established powers have traditionally held in global affairs is slowly eroding”.3
