On the outside looking in? Role location, capability claims, and the EU’s role in the Arctic
Journal: Journal of International Relations and Development
Year: 2025

Abstract New social contexts are constantly emerging in international relations, from international organisations to alliances and regional subsystems. This article asks how international actors can justify their roles in social contexts where their involvement is not established or intuitive. I expand on theories of role location to emphasise the importance of situating capabilities in a social, discursive interface. I argue that aspirant actors locate their role by identifying and positing app