Journal on Baltic Security

Performance in a military setting is influenced more by the quality of human resources than by the amount of weapons or technology, usually described as military morale. This article aims to analyse the psychometric properties of the Estonian version of the six-item instrument referring to respondents’ motivation and enthusiasm for accomplishing mission objectives. Confirmatory Factor Analysis, examining data from the Estonian Defence Forces (EDF), indicated that the six-item instrument functioned well at the individual level and was therefore recommended as a research and screening tool for the EDF.

The article underscores the significance of comprehending how leaders in post-USSR nations, including Vladimir Putin, Alexander Lukashenko, and Nursultan Nazarbayev, solidified their regimes through the suppression and dismantling of civil societies within their respective countries. Additionally, the article delves into the repression mechanisms employed by Russia in the temporarily occupied territories (TOT) of Ukraine, focusing on the suppression of the pro-Ukrainian population and the opposition to Ukrainian civil resistance.

This article employs structural realism indicators to predict the likelihood of a great power war in today’s multipolar world. Focusing on key indicators such as changes in the balance of power, alliance systems, military expenditure, and the intensity of competition over strategic resources and regions, the analysis aims to establish a theoretical foundation for assessing the risk of conflict among major powers in Europe and beyond. Drawing on historical precedents and contemporary geopolitical trends, the study evaluates the dynamics of international relations through the structural realist framework. By examining the evolving power structures and strategic behaviors of major states, the article seeks to identify patterns that may indicate an increased risk of great power conflicts. The multifaceted approach integrates both historical insights and current realities, offering a comprehensive perspective on the potential triggers and dynamics of great power wars in the complex landscape of a multipolar world. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the structural factors that may influence the emergence of conflicts among major powers, providing valuable insights for policymakers, scholars, and analysts grappling with global security challenges and provides a deeper analysis of the security implications for the Baltic region.

Improving Deterrence Concept for 21st-Century Needs: Review of Deterrence in 21st Century: Statecraft in the Information Age’