Signaling Commitment: How the US Signals Commitment to Allies in East Asia

• In Event: Poster Session: International Security I

Abstract

Alliances are both a consequence of and a way of maintaining the strength of a great power. As the most powerful state currently in existence and arguable global hegemon, the United States (US) maintains an extensive network of alliances with weaker states. In order to maintain these alliances and reap the benefits thereof, the US must signal commitment to its allies. It does so through (1) participating in joint military operations with forces of the ally, (2) direct statements of support for allies by US presidents, and (3) focusing on enemies or rivals it has in common with its ally. This paper looks at US signaling to Japan and South Korea in order to illustrate this broader trend.

Author

• Emily Rachel Kulenkamp, Boston College