The discursive articulation of the concept of the "rising power": perceptions, stances and interests in Brazil, Russia and Turkey

Abstract

The international perception of Brazil, Russia and Turkey as rising (or resurgent) powers was sparked initially by their impressive economic achievements over the past decade and optimistic future prospects. This identity as rising stars on the international scene has been increasingly championed by these countries’ leaderships and welcomed by their domestic constituencies. The realisation that their respective abilities to shape international affairs have lagged behind their economic promise has accelerated these countries’ revisionist agendas. In each case the discourse surrounding the concept of the “rising power” and its attendant identity has been deployed instrumentally to question the undemocratic nature of the established global governance system and support a change in the status quo that is more favourable to the interests and values of the rising powers. This report considers not only the economic potential of Brazil, Russia and Turkey, but also analyses their current endeavours and future prospects for greater geopolitical influence. It argues that the imaginary of the so-called rising power has played a signifcant role, both internally and internationally, in facilitating and legitimating these countries’ ascendance to world relevance, while also opening up space for political contestation.