Master's Thesis : Why Do the Post-Soviet States Integrate? A Qualitative and Network Analysis of Integration Processes at Policy Domain and Micro Levels

This study investigates the underlying causes for the post-Soviet states’ continuing participation in regional integration processes that take place against the backdrop of obvious political animosities, non-compliance with agreements, and little commitment to cooperation. The research traces the development of integration theories articulated both in the West and in Russia. It examines historical links that create common ties among the states, questions the role of leadership and political elites, and analyzes international agreements, state visits, and bilateral trade. I developed a model to assist with studying the region, which used the principles of big data and network analysis. In studying the states’ intrinsic qualities and relations, I identified and established patterns of hierarchical ranking and clustering based on similarities among the post-Soviet states. The study concludes that the main factor driving state cooperation is their access to the networks, which provides economic, political, and social resources to enhance each state’s capital. My observations suggest that each state leverages its position within the network and manipulates its structure to further promote its own interests and, possibly, to subjugate its opponents. Finally, I propose further development of network analysis methods and their application to the field