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Following the events in Ukraine in 2014, North Atlantic Treaty Organization decided to strengthen its presence in three Baltic States (3B) by establishing an enhanced Forward Presence (eFP) in Estonia, led by the United Kingdom; Latvia, led by Canada; and Lithuania, led by Germany. This study examines the nexus between host nations (HNs) and the eFP framework nations (FNs) while referencing small state theories. The case study considered theoretical and analytical approaches, including classical realism, neorealism, constructivism, liberal theory, neoliberal theory, shelter theory, alliance theory, alliance shelter theory, theory of the free-riding concept of bandwagoning, strategic hedging, and the concept of neutrality to indicate small states’ behaviour and attitude towards bigger states. The more intensive nexus between FNs and HNs was evident in the 3B; however, it varied when analysing activities in military and economic fields. Empirical evidence related to the FN–HN states’ pair led to different theoretical considerations. The study’s outcome suggests that an individual bespoke approach towards the 3B’s is required. The alliance and alliance shelter theories should be regarded as the most appropriate, albeit not explicitly corresponding with first-hand findings.
Donatas Palavenis (Thu,) studied this question.