The concept of “niche diplomacy” describes how middle powers—states with moderate influence and strategic importance—pursue foreign policy objectives by specializing in particular functional or geographical areas rather than attempting to compete with great powers across the board.Case studies in the book illustrate this approach: Canada’s leadership in peacekeeping, Norway’s mediation in the Middle East peace process, Australia’s regional strategy in the Asia-Pacific, and the diplomatic initiatives of Mexico and Argentina in Latin America. These examples show how middle powers use their resources, expertise, and international credibility to build coalitions, mediate conflicts, and promote multilateral solutions.

Middle powers are often characterized by their commitment to multilateralism, coalition-building, and the pursuit of compromise in international disputes. Rather than challenging the global status quo, they seek to reinforce international norms and institutions, acting as “good international citizens” and moral actors on issues like human rights, environmental protection, and arms control. This volume highlights how, after the Cold War, economic and developmental concerns have become increasingly central to the foreign policies of emerging middle powers, reflecting a shift from traditional security issues to broader global challenges.