Satelliidisuhted

Satelliidisuhted, a Finnish term, translates to "satellite relations" or "satellite relationships." In the context of international relations and political science, it refers to a situation where a weaker state is heavily influenced or controlled by a more powerful state. This influence can manifest in various ways, including political, economic, and military dependence. The term often implies a degree of coercion or a lack of genuine autonomy for the subordinate state.

The dominant state, often referred to as the "metropole" or "suzerain," exerts its power to shape the policies and actions of the weaker state, the "satellite." This can range from dictating foreign policy to influencing domestic affairs. Historically, the concept of satellite states became prominent during the Cold War, particularly concerning the Soviet Union's relationship with Eastern European countries. These nations, while technically independent, were largely aligned with and subordinate to Soviet interests.

While the term is strongly associated with historical geopolitical contexts, the underlying dynamics of unequal power and influence can still be observed in contemporary international relations, though the specific terminology might vary. The degree of control and the nature of the relationship can differ significantly, making each instance of satellite relations unique. The key characteristic remains the asymmetrical power imbalance and the resulting limitations on the sovereignty of the satellite state.