A STRUCTURAL AND GEOPOLITICAL PERSPECTIVE ON THE FOREIGN POLICY OF MULTI-IDENTITY STATES

This research examines the causal relationship between power capacity and internal stability of multi-identity states through the synthesis of structural realism and power transition theories. The study aims to answer the question "How does the power capacity of multi-identity states affect their internal stability?" and test the hypothesis that "strong multi-identity states manage their internal differences better." An ethnographic field study conducted between 2017-2022 in 6 cities in Switzerland, 17 cities in 10 EU member states, and 4 cities in Turkey with 730 participants using unstructured conversation techniques was evaluated through comparative case analysis. Findings demonstrate that identity tensions significantly decrease in states where per capita income exceeds approximately $20,000, and that economic power, institutional capacity, and diplomatic effectiveness directly influence identity management success. The research reveals that increasing power capacity can transform identity differences from sources of conflict into sources of wealth.