ABSTRACT
The chapter introduces the theoretical framework of the volume and discusses in detail its basic concepts. It shows how leadership is different from other forms of power in international relations, outlines the main essential features of a regional leader and examines the role of the followers in the process of building leader-follower relations. Also the chapter demonstrates the difference between the leadership model and leadership strategy and elaborates on a methodology that can be applied to study them both. Finally, the chapter also gives an overview of the main developments on the political landscape of Eurasia after the end of the Cold War, thus providing the context for further discussion of leadership initiatives of major powers in the region.
