Master’s Thesis Discussion

A master’s thesis discussion was held at the College of Political Science, Al-Nahrain University, Department of International Economic Relations, for the student Walaa Ali, titled “The Role of Energy Variable in the Foreign Policies of Great Powers: Russia as a Model”.

The discussion committee consisted of:

• Prof. Dr. Akhlas Qasim Nafal (Chairman)
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Ali Abdul Karim (Member)
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Zina Abdul Karim (Member)
• Prof. Dr. Haitham Karim Saiwan (Member and Supervisor)

The study aimed to examine the topic of energy as one of the most prominent vital variables that has imposed itself on contemporary international relations. Energy has become a major determinant in shaping the foreign policies and behavior of great powers, due to its economic and geo-political role.

The study concluded that the energy variable is a crucial determinant in the foreign policies of great powers, including Russia, but it is not an absolute determinant. Russia remains a prominent example of how to utilize this variable to achieve its goals and enhance its influence in the international system.