In many respects, Ireland is very powerful diplomatically, not least compared to other similar sized states. Both are powerful, small states. Regular readers will know that I have written a lot about the small, advanced economy model but not all small, advanced states are micropowers – Austria, Finland and New Zealand all top the list in terms of socio-economic models, but their diplomatic reach is not overawing. Another question is what micropowers are for, beyond bolstering their own influence in the world. Others, like Scotland, have a long way to travel if they want to become micro-powers, but at least they have their history to guide them.

Source: Forbes September 26, 2020 16:07 UTC