Eleventh Global Studies Conference

Abstract

This research investigates the role of state interests in multilateralism. It poses the question: under what conditions are states more likely to remain committed to their supranational obligations and multilateral engagements? We hypothesize that such member-states are more likely to remain engaged with their multilateral agreements when the benefits received from participation outweigh the social, political, and economic costs demanded of their commitments. It is further our contention that, as demonstrated presently by the European Union, the influence of global institutions directly reflects the caliber of relationship they hold with their member-states. Strong mission valence among member-states promotes unity and cooperation, but a fracture in this common purpose may threaten the very integrity and extent of multilateral order. As the EU now confronts a host of new and complex challenges, attentiveness to these factors is critical. Ultimately, we find that the key to sustained cohesion lies in perception. A perceived social benefit by citizens, political benefit by state-level politicians, and unified direction among supranational leaders are conducive to the continued engagement of member-states with their multilateral partners. Antagonistic forces such as the global financial crash, migrant crisis, abating American security, and Russia-sponsored information warfare are measured for impact in the states that have remained steadfast in their international responsibilities and in those that have transitioned toward nationalistic or Eurosceptical agendas. In all, we develop a set of dimensions by which the European Union may strengthen the commitment of member-states to its multilateral framework.