Strategic crossroads and hybrid warfare: A new phenomenon or new name for old approach to conflicts

Abstract

Global geopolitical changes encompass complex dynamics that inevitably affects all countries in the world including Serbia. Almost every moment, simultaneously at several places in the world, there are conflicts with apparently locally specific characteristics. Hybrid threats and hybrid warfare are terms that have become quite common in recent years. Opinion is divided on the issue of the conceptual determination of these terms in expert circles. Starting from the classic conception of warfare as a continuation of politics by other means, a logical analysis can lead to the essence of the concept of the phenomenon, which is often nowadays referred to as hybrid warfare. The simultaneous processes of globalization and technological development, especially in the sphere of information and communication technology, which, in combination with other factors, introduces new complexities and challenges, as well as the emergence and development of new phenomena in the sphere of social and international relations, significantly contribute to the problem complexity. Serbia, with its position at one of the world geostrategic crossroads, can certainly face hybrid threats in the future, as well, since it is at the crossroads of encountering and clashing ideological and religious concepts. The near and far history of the region that Serbia is located in also renders evidence of a number of turning points for Serbia with very strong effects and events that followed. Continuous monitoring of the current events, trends and new issues in contemporary conflicts on the world scene, as well as a critical analysis of historical events, can be useful in strategic consideration in the context of Serbia and strategic crossroads. .

Keywords

• serbia
• defense
• hybrid warfare
• strategy
• decision-making