HOW SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED STATES SHAPE THE INTERNATIONAL ORDER

Abstract

Abstract: Research topic – Medium-sized countries can achieve significant and sustainable global influence, confirming their status as a reliable actor on the international stage. The Republic of Serbia actively participates in shaping the regional and global order, confirming its role as a reliable and strategically important actor. Within the framework of the paper, the author provides an overview of the role of the Republic of Serbia, which, through coordinated diplomatic activities, infrastructure projects, digital innovations and regional initiatives, actively participates in shaping the regional and global order (confirming its role as a reliable and strategically important actor). In the final part of the paper, the author concludes that for the Republic of Serbia, the new year 2026 brings new geopolitical dynamics - continued redefinition of the European enlargement policy, intensification of regional connectivity through strategic initiatives and final preparations for EXPO 2027 (a project of key importance for Serbia's international recognition). Serbia will continue to implement activities (strengthening institutions, building a policy of accountability, developing mechanisms for dialogue and streamlining relations with international partners) that contribute to building itself as a stable, resilient state based on a European perspective with preserved strategic autonomy and strong international integrity. When preparing the paper, the author uses general methods, including descriptive, normative, comparative, and conten analysis methods.