Towards a New Understanding of Structural Power – Theoretical Considerations and Empirical Evidence

In this paper we introduce a new understanding of structural power. After discussing existing approaches of notions of power - including Susan Strange´s concept - we will introduce our own concept of structural power based on our considerations about the importance of goods-needs relations and outside options (OO) in international relations. By pointing out in detail the importance of states’ needs and goods for their structural power position in international relations and by introducing an approach for linking these to the exercise of power in structural terms we explore the very sources of structural power. We show that by influencing their baskets and the likelihood of becoming credible outside options (OO) for other actors in international negotiations, states can gain structural power in international affairs. By looking at the case of the formation and evolution of the OPEC and at the case of the USs, EUs and Chinas engagement in developing cooperation in Africa, we will illustrate the evidence of our concept and uncover the mechanisms behind structural power.