The Process of Russian Foreign Policy-Making: Its Instruments, Institutions, and Influencing Factors

Dr: Theeb Qaralleh

The study aimed to examine the process of Russian foreign policy decision-making, its instruments, institutions, and the factors influencing it. The study addressed several key points.

The first point focused on the determinants influencing Russian foreign policy, including:
first, the geographical location; second, military power; third, the economic factor; and fourth, the social situation.

The second point examined the institutions responsible for Russian foreign policy, which include:
first, the President of the State; second, the government (the executive branch); third, the legislative authority; and fourth, the political elite.

The third point addressed non-governmental actors, including:
first, political parties; second, interest groups; third, public opinion; fourth, the press; fifth, the Church; and sixth, the Jewish lobby.

The fourth point highlighted American power and its influence on Russian foreign policy.

The fifth point examined the Israeli factor and its impact on Russian foreign policy, including issues such as Jewish citizens in Russia, Israeli citizens of Russian origin, economic interests, and cooperation between Russia and Israel in the war on terrorism.

The sixth point explored Russia’s interests with Europe and their influence on its foreign policy.

The study concluded by emphasizing that Russia possesses all the elements of power—military, economic, social, and geographical—that qualify it to aspire to regain its status as a great power. The President remains the central figure in the foreign policy decision-making process and the main center of gravity in the Russian political system, due to the broad powers granted by the 1993 Constitution.

With the exception of the Jewish lobby, the roles of political parties, the press, and other interest groups remain relatively limited in influencing political decision-makers in Russia.

Source
Journal of Studies in Social Work and Human Sciences