Amidst the competition between big global powers, small countries are often perceived only being able to survive under the shadow of others. However, Ararat Konstanian, a PhD candidate from the Faculty of Social Science UIII, offered a different perspective through the concept of Proactive Hedging at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) on February 12, 2026. The discussion was titled “Proactive Hedging in International Relations: Armenia as a Small State Case Study.”

In his presentation, Konstanian introduced Proactive Hedging, a diplomacy concept for today’s era. This concept redefines Traditional Hedging, which is usually seen as a survival strategy using caution, ambiguity, and avoiding risks between big powers. Through this strategy, the focus of small countries shifts from just trying to survive to being more active in expanding their influence and position both regionally and internationally.

“Proactive hedging provides the opportunity for small states to move beyond major power, competition dilemma, and presents itself as a prime actor in regional and global affairs, capable of promoting regional projects and stabilising peace through active diplomacy.” Konstanian shared.

Through active diplomacy, countries are expected to build their own strength and influence on the world stage. Konstanian believes that the collaboration between BRIN and UIII is key to producing this kind of strategic knowledge. He concluded that proactive hedging gives small states a real chance to move beyond the shadow of big powers and become ‘prime actors’ in promoting regional stability and peace.