Cooperation as an (un)expected effect of energy security dilemma: The case study of Bulgaria, Greece and Yugoslavia

Abstract

The paper analyzes the significance of energy infrastructure for the concept of energy security, the basis of energy security dilemma concept that relied on the need for the protection and strengthening energy infrastructure and the effects of such a dilemma as well. The central hypothesis refers to the positive outcomes of the energy security dilemma, i.e., the assumption that, unlike the classical security dilemma, the energy security dilemma encourages states to cooperate instead of refraining them from doing so. Hence, the focus of authors? attention contains the analysis of three Balkan countries? energy arrangements - Bulgaria, Greece and Yugoslavia - undertaken in order to strengthen their own energy security. The period of research covers the end of the 19th and the entire 20th century highlighting the Cold War period. Comparative historical approach to this topic implies observing the envisaged subject of research in a given historical and political context, especially due to the fact that these countries have changed their borders and status several times throughout history. In that sense, it is necessary to highlight key historical, political and economic characteristics of the countries that marked the appropriate period and made (im)possible undertakings in the field of energy security. The conclusion reached by the authors suggests that the main initiator of the development of energy infrastructure was the increased need of these countries for energy in order to meet their own needs due to accelerated industrialization and urbanization. In addition, within the analyzed case study of Bulgaria, Greece and Yugoslavia, conclusion remarks refer to the fact that energy infrastructure, as well as the need for its protection and strengthening, can contribute to the connection of states, both physically and institutionally, despite their political classification during the Cold War.