Middle Powers as Mediators: The role of Türkiye and Brazil in the JCPOA, the Ukrainian Grain Deal, and further developments in the war in Ukraine

Abstract

Characterized by their ability to impact the world order without having superpower status, middle powers contribute significantly to maintaining global stability and fostering notable advancements. The notion of middle powers is longstanding in international relations, with its roots traceable in the writings of the Italian 16th century thinker Giovanni Botero. The literature concerning middle powers is full of debates and considerations about their definitions, characteristics, and objectives. Türkiye and Brazil have been chosen as primary subjects of this study to exemplify the growing role of middle powers as mediators due to their involvement in international negotiations. Keywords: Middle Powers; Great Powers; the Grain Deal; JCPOA; diplomatic negotiations; mediation.