India as a key component of the global security architecture: Potential and limitations in light of the strategic documents of the European Union and the Russian Federation

Abstract

Polarisation is intensifying within the global security architecture of the modern world. On the one hand, this phenomenon stems from the decline of the unipolar system that emerged after the Cold War, in which the United States functioned as the sole superpower and the dominant actor in international relations. At present, the emergence of new poles – global powers – is increasingly evident. On the other hand, there is a growing prevalence of political, economic, ideological, and cultural confrontations, which at times escalate into armed conflict. A prominent example of this is the neo-imperial and aggressive policies pursued by the Russian Federation. In this context, it is pertinent to examine the role that India, as a world power experiencing the growth of its political, economic, and military influence, plays in shaping the global security architecture. What are India's potential contributions and limitations in this regard? This article examines India as a power increasingly regarded in International Security Studies as a critical element not only in regional security, but also in the broader global security system. Many observers argue that the evolving US-China rivalry in Asia will be instrumental in determining the regional and global balance of power, ultimately shaping the future global security order. This analysis adopts a specific research perspective by investigating India’s role as a key component of the global security system from the perspectives of the European Union and the Russian Federation. This analysis is confined to two perspectives: first, the role assigned to India within the strategic documents of the European Union; and second, the position of India as outlined in the strategic documents of the Russian Federation. By examining these perspectives, it becomes possible to identify the untapped potential for India to emerge as a pivotal element of the global security system.