The Power of the Small: The Impact of Ethnic Minorities on Foreign Policy

Abstract: Ethnic minorities often have a greater impact on the government's foreign policy than their size may otherwise lead to believe. Before considering to what extent ethnic groups influence foreign policymaking, it is important to understand their interests—what ethnic identities may imply for external relations. In this regard, minorities face a variety of constraints, including repression, failure to mobilize, and a focus on domestic politics. However, ethnic minorities also possess some unique advantages. They may find it easier to organize by virtue of their small size; they are often more focused on a narrow set of issues; and they frequently face less opposition from majority groups on these particular issues. Ethnic groups have resorted to a variety of strategies to influence their state's foreign policies, which have implications for policymaking in general.