Negotiating hegemony: the discursive construction of geopolitical space in Kazakhstani foreign policy

Abstract

With heightened tensions between Russia and the West, and the growing influence of China, the geopolitical situation in Central Asia is actively changing. This brings into question the nature of the relationship between the Central Asian states and Russia. While engaged in necessary pragmatic relations with Moscow, Kazakhstan has needed to assert its independence and autonomy, especially at a time when the world is becoming more geopolitically unstable. This study specifically explores how the construction of geopolitical space in Kazakhstani discourse acts as a tool to limit regional hegemony. Through a Critical Discourse Analysis of Kazakhstani governmental and media output, it finds that the construction of regional spaces contributes to the limitation of regional hegemonic power. The emphasis on Central Asian regionalism creates a core within Eurasian integration processes which defends Central Asian interests against undue Russian influence. Similarly, the active promotion of multilateral regional formats across Asia introduces China as a counterweight to Russian influence. This simultaneously anchors them both in multilateral forums, preventing either one from becoming a hegemonic regional power. As such, this demonstrates that smaller states have an active role in negotiating the limits of great power competition.