The politics of vague: Leveraging ambiguity in foreign relations

Ambiguity contributes to global uncertainty and risks, but can be a force for good when practised consensually.

Pallative medicine: A Ukrainian serviceman firing his gun in the direction of Russia-backed separatists during night combat near the southeastern city of Mariupol on June 10.
PHOTO: AFP

Moscow

AMBIGUOUS behaviour, doctrines and statements have gained popularity as foreign policy instruments among great and smaller powers alike over the last decade. Ambiguity - intentional lack of clarity about one's goals and plans - has contributed to the rise of unpredictability and