Where Small Powers Travel? Understanding Jordan’s High-Level Diplomatic Visit Patterns

Abstract

Where do leaders of smaller powers travel abroad? By examining high-level leader visits of a small power, we gain an understanding of the determinants of their foreign policy orientations. Existing literature on this topic is primarily qualitative. This study focuses on Jordan, using a comprehensive dataset of high-level visits from 1989 to 2023 to test and revise assumptions about small power foreign policy. We find that Jordan’s foreign policy priorities include ensuring national survival amid regional volatility, maintaining regime security in a country with a majority refugee population, securing economic aid to bolster fiscal stability, and demonstrating solidarity with Muslim countries. These findings highlight the importance of security and economic needs, as well as cultural and regional affiliations, in shaping Jordan’s foreign relations.